Students left for Melbourne on Monday 26 October, to share their original theatre work as part of The Suitcase Series, an education program by Malthouse Theatre that encourages young people to explore climate change and environmental issues through theatre-making.
Working together as a class, students have written and developed their own play, focusing on littering and its impact on animals and the environment.
The story follows two siblings, one of whom litters, resulting in a seagull being injured. The incident sparks an argument before the characters attend a protest. By the end of the play, they recognise the need to make changes and take action to protect the environment and animals.
The Suitcase Series gives students the opportunity to develop their theatre-making skills, collaborate creatively and share their work with students from other schools. The class has developed its play over two to three lessons, building on earlier activities exploring similar styles of theatre.
The students are looking forward to performing in front of an audience alongside students from around 10 other schools. While the prospect is exciting, they also recognise that performing for a wider audience can be a little nerve-racking.
With an early start and a train journey to Melbourne, the students are ready to share their message through drama and encourage others to think about the impact of littering.
Their play highlights an important message: everyone has a role to play in caring for our environment and protecting the animals we share it with.
Learn more about The Suitcase Series at Malthouse Theatre.