Colourful Arabian Nights delight College audiences
Posted on Wednesday 14 December 2005
The cold, wet and miserable December nights last week were transformed into a Persian bazaar at Farn
The cold, wet and miserable December nights last week were transformed into a Persian bazaar at Farnborough Sixth Form College’s production of Arabian Nights in the Prospect Theatre. In a blaze of light, a cacophony of street noise and a flood of brilliant colours, all created by the student technical crew, the exotic, mystical world of ancient Arabia tumbled into view.
The huge cast, playing in a wonderful set constructed by students, made imaginative use of hands, bodies, eyes, voices and extraordinary colour. There was juggling, belly dancing, and mime, all with exhilerating energy. Camels and donkeys appeared before astonished eyes. A talking wise bird, a living tree, and a golden fountain were conjured from nowhere.
Deadly and desperate thieves hoarded gold in a secret mountain; there was the cunning Ali Baba, a beautiful slave girl saving her master with boiling oils poured into vast stone jars; Sindibad was rescued from the snake filled, diamond encrusted valley on the wings of a huge rok.
Shahrazad, played by Maddie Gower, 18, of Camberley, could live another day as long as she could enchant her husband, the King, played by Gideon Odeleye, 18, of Aldershot, with her enchanting stories. This was ensemble playing at its best – a wonderful night that the audiences wished would last 1001 nights more!
The production was the brainchild of the theatre and drama tutors at the College, led by newly appointed senior curriculum manager, Matt Sheppard. He said, "I am delighted and amazed by the level of enthusiasm, energy and commitment displayed by all the students throughout the project, which has culminated in such a magical and extraordinary show".
