In this fully devised production, directed by Jess Haygarth, and written by Alexandra Wood, The Olympians reunite after hundreds of years, but in Richmond high street.

Across two months of devising and rehearsing, I have created my take on Demeter, alongside 11 other fantastic devisers. Working on movement within this piece has been joyful, using what I have learnt in the past (What Fatima Did, Tara Theatre) to inform how I work in this space has been fruitful. Exploring new writing techniques with Jess to form complicated, yet relatable characters has been exciting, and I hope to use this technique again.

Using my preconceptions of Greek myths, after studying the Epics Iliad and Odyssey, and an avid listener to Natalie Haynes, I have written a back story for Demeter and her love for the four seasons (Vivaldi), and the smell of rain (see: petrichor).

Across the three days, The Olympians walked Richmond, danced, praised, and loved with each other and the community.

The Opening Ceremony was a beautiful coming together, welcoming people into the Richmond Myths festival. Alongside Combination Dance and Singing It Back choir, the 6-11s, BridgeLink Centre Junior and Senior Youth Club, 12-14s company, Orange Tree Friday Company, 15-18s, Richmond Young Carers, Ukrainian Social Club - a 25 mins piece inspired by the Aetos Dios written by Kwame Owusu, directed by Georgia Green.

The Closing Ceremony inspired by the Garden of the Hesperides, was led by Simon Callow (Four Weddings and a Funeral), as the Oracle, gathering all the people of Richmond to celebrate the joy created throughout the weekend.

Overall, a new experience of learning and performing street theatre! Engaging with lots of people in the three performances throughout the day on 18th July, interacting with the other performances happening on the high street, and just having a great time!

CAST

• Zeus - Kavern Batchelor

• Hera - Sahar Malaika

• Poseidon - Bolu Lawson

• Demter - Anoushay Dar

• Aphrodite - Jumoke Sowole

• Apollo - Fatima Abdullahi

• Artemis - Dylan Sweet

• Hephaestus - Ja’ce

• Athena - Atira Shack

• Ares - Lauryn Perkins-Monney

• Hermes - Tasha Bryony

• Dionysus - Grace Whitty

CREW

• Writer - Alexandra Wood

• Director - Jess Haygarth

• Assistant Director - Suraj Shah

• Stage Manager - Kate Braidwood