Our talented KS3 WGSF production team transported audiences to the captivating world of Arabian Nights. This extraordinary collection of tales, also known as One Thousand and One Nights, stands as one of the most enduring and beloved stories.

Our dedicated students have been working tirelessly over the past few months in rehearsals, immersing themselves in this narrative. What many may not realise is that despite its Arabic title, the collection is a fascinating blend of storytelling traditions from Persia, India, and the ancient Middle East and Central Asia. These tales have journeyed across continents and centuries, evolving with each retelling before finally being transcribed in Arabic and later introduced to the Western world in the 18th Century.

At the heart of these interwoven stories lies the compelling frame narrative of Shahrazad. This intelligent and courageous young woman bravely volunteers to marry King Shahrayar, a ruler scarred by past betrayal who has vowed to take a new bride each day only to have her executed the following morning. However, Shahrazad possesses a remarkable weapon: her storytelling prowess. On their wedding night, she begins to weave a tale so captivating that the king spares her life to hear its conclusion the next evening. This continues for an astonishing one thousand and one nights, during which the king’s heart is not only entertained but ultimately transformed by Shahrazad’s enchanting narratives, leading him to love and trust again.

Shahrazad’s vibrant storytelling in Arabian Nights blends excitement, magic, and humour, yet also includes elements of violence and darkness reflecting the historical context of these ancient cautionary tales, which offered lessons on justice, power, and survival, showcasing the enduring ability of stories to entertain, challenge norms, and provoke thought across time; ultimately, Shahrazad herself stands as a powerful figure of intellect and courage, using her words to confront tyranny, challenge absolute power, humanise herself, and inspire profound change, establishing her as an early and compelling feminist literary hero demonstrating the life-saving and world-shaping potential of narratives.

We couldn’t be prouder of our Foundation KS3 production team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this significant and multifaceted work to the stage. Their commitment to exploring these timeless tales promised an engaging and thought-provoking experience for all who attended.

To view all the production photos click here.