Level 1 Performing Arts students from the Royal National College for the Blind presented powerful readings of The Charge of the Light Brigade and The Fallen. The first reading was performed by Yeter, Celeste, Freddie, and Charlie, while Josh, Madison, and Emily brought The Fallen to life. Their thoughtful performances effectively conveyed the emotions and realities of conflict, leaving a significant impression on the audience.
Following the readings, Lucy delivered a poignant speech on community, remembrance, and solidarity. She highlighted a double-sided French and Belgian flag displayed at Hereford Town Hall, which commemorates the city's historic role as the first in the UK to welcome Belgian refugees during the First World War. Lucy also reflected on Hereford’s ongoing tradition of hospitality, referencing the city’s recent friendship agreement with Zhytomyr in Ukraine. These examples underscored Hereford's long-standing reputation as a welcoming city that supports communities affected by conflict.
The students' performances were the culmination of weeks of dedicated work. Performing Arts teacher Debs Burrows explained the process: ‘We’ve been developing our ideas and rehearsing since October, meeting twice a week. We wanted to create more than just a reading, so we explored ways of incorporating movement and percussion into each performance. We thought carefully about the audience experience and how rhythm, tone, and pace could help bring the words to life. Emily even whistled a few bars of Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag.’
As part of their research, the students visited The Courtyard Theatre to watch the film Pressure, which helped them explore themes of remembrance and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of war. For some, this was their initial engagement with such stories, fostering an appreciation for the sacrifices made and lives lost.
Reflecting on their performances, Celeste commented, ‘Performing in front of an audience always makes me nervous, but I feel like it went really well.’ Madison added, ‘At first, I felt so nervous. All that nervousness was building up in my chest, but I kept telling myself that I was in charge. Afterwards, I couldn’t believe I’d done it.’ Emily expressed her delight at remembering all her lines and successfully whistling during the performance, stating, ‘I had to practise, practise, practise because I didn’t know the tune at first!’ Josh shared, ‘It took me a while to learn all the words, but I’m really pleased with how it went.’
The students' performances, combined with Lucy’s reflections on community, provided a fitting tribute to those who have served and sacrificed. The event not only honoured the past but also reinforced the contemporary importance of mutual support and compassion for those affected by conflict.
