Assistant Directors
Kate Elliott
Our creative process of ‘The Royal Hunt of the Sun’ has been rewarding to say the least. Contributing from a new lens, directing has allowed me to experience the holistic journey of creating a piece of theatre and to understand the complexities required to produce the quality of theatre we see so often at UWC. Working with such a creative and motivated cast as well as the dedicated crew, has been incredible, allowing us to bring our initial visions for the show to life. Peter Shaffer’s captivating writing has enabled us to collectively and creatively explore the history of both Spain and Peru, whilst developing a piece of theatre we can truly be proud of. The depth in Shaffer’s writing is immense, and allowed us to fully explore the ideas presented such as; faith and the value of life. As it is my final year at UWC, ‘The Royal Hunt of the Sun’ has been a very rewarding last production and has given me one last opportunity to immerse myself in the drama world at East and has provided an incredible send off.
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Harit RaghunathanThough I once planned on auditioning for this production, I am glad that I decided to assistant direct it instead. These past three months have been an awakening into the true effort required to create a production, something that I never recognised as an actor, and I am happy that I’ve experienced this process. As every other reflection in this programme will tell you, the cast and crew are some of the most dedicated and hardworking people I’ve ever seen. The amount of research that cast members have done to better understand their characters simply astonishes me. I am proud to have helped them through the rehearsal process and can confidently say that we have done our best to stay true to Spanish and Incan source material. One of my roles in this production, alongside the wonderful Kazly and Kate Fourie, was to create, source, and produce its music. I’ve had a great time letting my imagination fly as I recreate Shaffer’s directions with them that ask for sounds like the “thin whine of huge metal saws.” I could not ask for better persons to share my final year of UWC theatre with.
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The Cast Reflections
Tommaso Salvatori Francisco Pizarro
This production process has been incredible. I’ve had the privilege of working with an immensely talented, enthusiastic, and energetic cast that has rendered these short, action-packed months an unforgettable experience. Through the portrayal of Pizarro I have discovered things about myself that I had never before considered. I’ve learnt from an inspiring director who’s guided my work on the challenging and complex, yet captivating character that is Pizarro. I’ve worked with new and unfamiliar staging, and through thrust have discovered a whole new layer in the space. I’ve been exposed to a fascinating era of history and a story that I believe, even though it is situated centuries before our time, will resonate with the audience like no other. I’ve found out things about myself through the portrayal of Pizarro which I had never before considered. But most importantly, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this process. It’s hard to believe that it’s already over. Now I just hope the audience enjoys it as much as I have. Most importantly, I have thoroughly enjoyed this process, it is hard to believe that it is already over.
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Hector Martin Dit Neuville Hernando de Soto
This production has brought to me an array of fantastic experiences, and most of all fun. I’ve been lucky enough to work with a cast who value the outcome of the piece, and the success of one another. My character, Hernando de Soto, has taken me on a journey like no other in which I discovered a new aspect of history, a new time frame and most importantly a new life form. This role has challenged me, and allowed me to uncover aspects of acting that prior to this journey, I had never before considered. The piece is presented in thrust, a staging choice in which I have never performed - this has proven to test my adaptability and push chemistry between actors. I believe the production, in every aspect, has tested and challenged me, giving me a platform to grow, all the while enjoying myself. |
Quinn Aldrich Miguel Estete
This production has without a doubt been one of my favourite theatre journeys that I have been given the opportunity to be apart of. The ethusamtim and talent that exists within this year’s cast is truly inspiration, there isn’t one rehearsal that goes by where all 22 of us are not putting in our utmost effort and energy! The Royal Hunt is definitely the most intimate and raw theatre style that I have ever performed on stage; with the audience seated in thrust, our characters are challenged to be portrayed in the most authentic and naturalistic manner. Furthermore, this is not solely an ensemble based piece, but rather one that focuses on each individual character and the chemistry between each other. This aspect of the process has definitely challenged me as an actor, but also helped me grow through the research I have done to develop and enhance my character, Estete.
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Kyle Hunter Pedro de Candia
Royal Hunt has been such a different and amazing experience. I’ve had the chance to embrace a completely new type of theatre. Previously I have been in productions which have been mainly ensemble based, its been awesome to have the chance to be a part of a play which focuses more so on acting. It has given me the chance to develop myself as an actor and as an individual. I have loved the major historical aspect of this play, as a person who takes Spanish as a language it’s been amazing to embrace the history of Peru and Spain through Royal Hunt.
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Joseph La Rondie Diego de Trujillo
This production has been unlike any other that I have ever participated in. In this production I’ve had the opportunity to explore a completely different kind of way of looking at theatre, in the form of thrust. The Royal Hunt of The Sun has given me a chance to develop as an actor and especially enhance my characteristic skills. Throughout the rehearsal process it's been important to understand the historical context surrounding my character, and it's been a fun experience to learn about Diego and then shape my character around the historical truth. It's been a great challenge to adapt to this new style of theatre and way of acting, but it's been an experience that I have enjoyed immensely and I look forward to being able to continue developing myself as an actor.
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Aarushi Sachdeva Old Martin
I feel so very lucky to be a part of this production. I think Royal Hunt of the Sun has a lot to offer to both its audience, and the artists. It gives the artists a lot of depth to work with and (hopefully gives) the audience a complex experience of beauty and discomfort. The history behind this story has really contributed to our process of character building. One of the most exciting moments for me, and Isabella, was to find out that our character (like many others in the play) was actually a real person. His name was Pedro Pizarro, and was a page to Francisco Pizarro in the actual conquest! During that time, he wrote an account of their journey and the history of the rich Inca culture, in a chronicle which is now regarded as monumental to our current understanding about the history of Peru and Spain. For me finding that book and reading parts of it, made this story even more real. Isabella and I have had so much fun discussing our character, and working on characteristics about him that have changed or stayed the same with age. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to work with this amazingly talented cast, crew and directors!
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Isabella Griggs Young Martin
I am beyond grateful to be apart of this play and I’ve learned so much from the process. Learning about Spanish and Peruvian history has been so fascinating and to have the opportunity to tell such a historically and culturally rich story is so special. I’ve also learned more about how to perform on a stage layout that I’m not usually used to (Thrust) which has overall made me more aware of myself in relation to my fellow actors as well as the space. Portraying my character, Young Martin, has also been such a interesting experience. Aarushi and I spent hours discussing the details and nuances of our character and I’ve loved every bit of it! But most of all, I’ve loved working with such a fun and talented cast. I’m always excited to go to rehearsals and there’s no doubt that the cast and directors have played a part in this excitement. I couldn’t imagine being apart of this production with anyone else!
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Alex Scola Rodas
This is the first school production I have ever taken part in and I am incredibly impressed with the amount of commitment and passion that everyone carries into it. Every member of this cast is certainly talented - the simple fact that they were selected indicates that they stand out in terms of their abilities. What I most appreciate about all this, is the way the individual skill and passion for drama translates into an atmosphere within which everyone feels comfortable and supported; Such that the rehearsal process becomes a collaboration where there is a mutual respect amongst the cast, and between cast and the directing team. Coming out of this production, I think I have learned so much in relation to performing, as well as gained a unique experience. I am unimaginably grateful for the opportunity to take part in this production and for all the relationships that have developed out of it.
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Ali Shah Vasca
I have thoroughly enjoyed working on The Royal Hunt of the sun this year, it has been incredible to watch the play come alive and to watch each of the actors and directors work to create the best product we can. The dedication and commitment by everyone has been fantastic and I think it will show in the final piece. The main aspect I have learned about interpreting and staging a play is the sheer amount of effort that goes in contextualising the play. As this is a true story there has been a massive amount of work that has been put into the play to make sure we respect the playwright and well as the historical accuracy. I think many of the themes that the play addresses are extremely relevant in the world today especially that of self reflection and questioning your reasons for doing things and how far you are willing to go to achieve things. Seeing these themes depicted in this epic based in 1532 emphasises the universality of these themes. It has been truly inspiring to watch a massively talented group of people to come together like this and try to achieve something great
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Lucas Duncan Domingo
I feel incredibly lucky to have been cast in this theatre production of Peter Schaffer’s ‘The Royal Hunt of the Sun’. Being a part of this process has really changed my views of how to construct a play; in just a few months we have been able to create an atmospheric, ominous and compelling production. I feel I have been given many opportunities during the creation and blocking of scenes to present suggestions or ideas. The cast I have been able to work with are all so talented, each with their own thoughts on how separate moments can be portrayed; so I feel the need to stress how grateful I am to work with each and every one of them. Most of all, I’m so glad how enjoyable it has been, so I really hope you take as much out of it as the cast put in.
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Joshua Parr Juan Chavez
This is now my second school production and after experiencing the journey last year, I am more than lucky and grateful to have the opportunity to explore the historical events taken place in 16th Century Spain, taking over the Inca empire. We are using different staging called thrust which is different to normal. It is a challenge yet allows for new skills to be developed in my own acting, which I will definitely be able to apply in my IB theatre experience. As always this production has also had an incredible atmosphere or people, skills and work. It always so amazing that the cast always have this respectful and positive attitude which I feel is a life skill and it also means that more fun will be had throughout the journey and process which in the end will lead to a better production.
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Thomas McLaughlin Pedro Chavez
I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to explore a completely new area of theatre and world history. Before starting the play this was an area of history that I didn’t know anything about apart from in very broad strokes. However, now through research about my character and the play itself I’ve learnt so much about this period of time and that has been a very special experience. I also think that this play is important. It speaks about themes such as life and death, and is a powerful commentary on issues that are relevant even today. As such performing and understanding this play has been an unforgettable and important experience.
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Shea O Sullivan Salinas
This has been the first production that I have been involved in at UWC and it was quite a new and very enjoyable experience, I have felt very privileged to have been chosen for this role due to the fact that I am new to the school this year. I was shocked by the exceptional casts talent and their commitment to bringing the story of ‘The Royal Hunt of the Sun’ to life. This has been an unforgettable experience where I feel that I have developed as an actor through working with new people and the very helpful directors passion. The thing I loved learning about the most through this production has been the history of the conquest and how theatre can present social and political messages. With my character, Salinas, I have been able to access a new viewpoint to this era and more of an in-depth study into this event that has helped me better myself as a performer. My main hope for the show is that the audience will enjoy watching the show!
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Christian Foo Fray Vincente de Valverde
I’ve loved working with such a fun and committed cast! Despite not taking Theatre in IB, my love for it has not died. I am in such a fortunate position, learning from peers (who have developed their skills in NIDA) as well as actors from the grade above. Being able to act in a production by my favourite playwright, Peter Shaffer, has been such an incredible experience. The production itself is based on a true event, and with that comes intricate motifs and numerous subtleties which can be incorporated. To be put simply, there are so many exciting aspects to develop as a cast and as an individual. I definitely do not take this prodigious opportunity for granted and will strive to deliver an unforgettable performance!
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Luca Salvatori Fray Marcos de Nizza
It’s difficult to express in words how much this production has shaped and molded my own perspective not only on Drama, but on the study of history, and my own personal beliefs. Playing the character of Friar De Nizza (who actually existed as a historically significant figure in the christianisation of the new world) meant that I not only had to research Spanish history, but also evaluate the zealotry of the catholic church at the time. Shaffer’s detailed and to-the-point approach to scriptwriting has forced me to explore The Royal Hunt of the Sun through so much more than just the lens of an actor. Working with such a rich cast of actors, portraying a wide menagerie of various dramatic figures, ranging from human to godlike, has resulted in The Royal Hunt of the Sun being an incredibly impactful play for me, and I shall do my absolute best to embrace this opportunity and give the greatest performance I am capable of.
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Natasha Went Atahuallpa
I can’t express how much I appreciate the opportunity to work with such a passionate cast and crew, every rehearsal is so inspiring because of it and has allowed me to grow immensely through being influenced by the strengths of each cast members. The cultural context of this event has been so fascinating to investigate as it made me acknowledge that there are so many varying beliefs and interpretations of the purpose we have in the world as well as the way in which people lead their lives. The exploration process for this production has been especially eye-opening as we researched traditions and rituals from over 450 years ago. The depth and complexity of this play completely exceeded my first impression, as Peter Shaffer wrote this play in a way that causes you to question religion, your values and your purpose in life. I hope that our authentic interpretation of this historical drama will transport you to 1530 Peru and educate you on the marvellous cultures and journey that we have been exploring for the past 3 months.
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Noshin Saiyaara Villac Umu
As a part of the cast of The Royal Hunt of the Sun, I can say that this experience has truly impacted me immensely as a performer and a creator. I have had the pleasure of working alongside an incredible, passionate cast and crew that have all had a hand in delivering a palpable and moving retelling of this story. Illustrating this timeless play has taught me how to stage a large scene without the equally large cast that it demands and how to maintain respect and authenticity while playing a character that is real and incredibly culturally significant. Being educated about the historical event that we are portraying made me realise that the world is much bigger than us. It is much more harrowing than what we may have experienced, and it is our responsibility to take the lessons these events teach us and put them to use. The creative process of this production has been unforgettable to me, and I hope that it imparts something special to our audience, something they can keep with them for years after watching our performance.
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Lia Shoshani Challchuchima
Being apart of this production has been a true honor. Right from the beginning of our process, I enjoyed the exploration aspects of devising within small groups. The support we each carry and offer towards this entire wonderful cast is truly something special that I think we can all agree on. Although I have been to neither Spain nor Peru, this production process has taught me much more about these cultures than I could’ve ever imagined. The history behind the story of ‘The Royal Hunt of the Sun’ is far more intricate than I had imagined, and to be able to convey and transfer such an extensive story, onto a performance space is so miraculous. I’ve been so grateful to have been apart of this amazing production and I am hopeful that the audience is able to take away the significance of this piece through our hard work and committed cast and crew.
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Meghna Abrol A Chieftain
I am extremely grateful and honoured to have given the opportunity to partake in this year’s theatre production ‘Royal Hunt of the Sun’. What I have appreciated the most from this process was investigating into the intricate cultural context of a historical event I was previously unfamiliar of, which was the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. Despite not taking Theatre in IB, I have been incredibly thankful to have been given the opportunity to combine my deep interest in history with my enthusiasm in drama. This specific play has taught me the colossal importance of maintaining authenticity and respect to historical events while at the same time adding an individualistic touch to the my character and the setting I am representing. Throughout the journey of creating and bringing this performance to life, what I have valued the most was learning about dedication and passion from my fellow cast members through their love for theatre.
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Heidi Foster Head of a thousand families
Being a part of this production has been a truly incredible experience and I am so grateful to have been able to take part. Working with such a passionate and talented group of people has taught me loads about performing and devising and I will definitely carry this experience with me as I do my drama GCSEs. Being able to explore the historical and cultural context of this play has been fascinating, and I have particularly enjoyed researching and interpreting the rich culture of the Inca empire. Playing a person from a completely different culture to my own has shown me how important it is to maintain respect for the culture at the same time as trying to achieve as much authenticity as possible. As well as this, learning to perform in Thrust, a stage layout that I did not know much about before has been really interesting and I have enjoyed the challenge of adapting to a way of performing that I am not used to. I think that this play is much more important than just a school play, and really gives an insight into an extremely important historical event.
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Quinn Wong Felipillo
Personally, I feel really grateful for the opportunity that I have been given to partake in this play. What I enjoyed the most was the knowledge gained from the whole process, mainly learning about the history of both the Spanish and Peruvians, whilst exploring the cultural values as well. This has not only allowed me to diversify my geographical and historical knowledge, but it has allowed to me apprehend more about South America and realise its prevalence in current times. Throughout the blocking process, I believed that the one aspect that I have particular learned about myself is fitting myself into the characterisation of Felipillo, which I found particularly challenging as his personality is one that I have not explored before in a performance. Furthermore, I enjoyed the stage used for this play (Thrust) as I have not ventured into this type of stage before and it has allowed me to learn about the different ways as to how to position your character to create more relation and intimacy with the audience.
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Kritika Krachaiwong Manco
I am incredibly appreciative and thankful to have been cast in this years play, The Royal Hunt Of The Sun. This would collectively be my 3rd production I have been part of, and what an experience it has been. This play has given me more insight on the complex history of Peruvians, their rituals and cultural values that is so rich and unique. Being part of the Incas has given me exposure to look so deeply into one specific tribe, indulging in their traditions and paying attention to the smallest details. This experience has allowed me to venture to great extremes, crafting and devising a piece of drama that embodies an Inca is truly fascinating. I am hopeful to successfully embody an Inca and portray the true authenticity of this tribe. But most of all, a big thanks to my awesome and amazing cast. I continuously feel amazingly proud every time I get the opportunity to work with people who share the same love and passion as me. This has been such a humbling experience, especially seeing the amount of energy and commitment each and every cast member has shown throughout this process. I wouldn’t ask to share this experience with any other group of people.
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