Southside Drama’s Production “Stars Over Persia”

Nineteen young actors aged between 10 and 18 took to the stage for Southside Drama’s production of “Stars Over Persia” on 1st and 2nd March. The play was written and directed by Douglas Roberts, and performed at Elim Christian Centre in Papakura. All of the youth involved were from homeschooling families in and around the Papakura area.

“Stars Over Persia” is a play based on the well-known story of Esther from the Bible. It opens with a group of travelling players on their way to the city of Susa, in Persia, where lives the Sultan who has recently banished his wife, Queen Vashti. Haman, the cruel and cunning Grand Vizier, is tasked with finding a new queen for the Sultan, and unwittingly chooses a girl – Esther – from amongst the very people he hates, the Jews. The travelling players are caught up in the events that follow, where Haman attempts to destroy the Jews and Esther is faced with the prospect of risking her life to save her people. Her guardian, Moriyah (substituted for Mordecai in the Bible story) urges her with the following quote, “Maybe everything happens for a reason, and this is your reason. This. Now. A moment when only you can save the lives of thousands of people. Your people.” Other characters included in the story are Douglas’ ever-present guards, who provide some light-relief but generally serve a much more serious role in this particular play; the household staff who attend to the queen; and a Jewish woman friend to Moriyah.

The three performances were a great success, with some very moving scenes but also several unexpected incidents which lead to some amazing – and hilarious – improvisation. This form of drama is highly intense, with cast members only receiving their scripts just under two weeks before the first show. In that time they learn their lines, ‘block’ the scenes, and ensure everyone knows exactly what they’re doing and when. No adults are directing things backstage, and there are no stage hands, so the cast must do all of this themselves.

The cast and crew alike loved the experience. The growth they experienced was phenomenal, and will continue to be seen for months to come. While they all mourn the end of another amazing show, the shared memories and anticipation of next time will keep them buzzing all year round.

If you missed Stars Over Persia, keep an eye out for Douglas’ next play with Shoestring Drama in Waiuku on the 22nd and 23rd March!