Reality meets fantasy in the tenth year of the Raglan Theatre Academy, with Ruth Hare directing an enchanting rendition of ‘The Neverending Story’ at the Raglan Town Hall. Inspired by the book ‘The Neverending Story’, the captivating show tells the tale of a grieving young boy named Bastian Balthazar Bux (Giorgia Hope) as he stumbles into a fantasy world through the pages of a mysterious book; encapsulating the themes of the power of friendship and the need for imagination.
Giorgia Hope shines as Bastian, expertly portraying his character’s transformation and deepening connection to the fantastical world he discovers.
Entering into a bookstore to escape bullies, Bastian picks up a mysterious book titled ‘The Neverending Story’, even after being told by the owner, Mr Coreander, played exquisitely by Kaya Le Gouais Borgoo, that it was unsafe. The story is that of another young boy named Atreyu (Wai Ariki Tepania) as he quests to find a cure for the deathly ill Childlike Empress (Brooklyn Bayliss) and, in turn, save the realm of Fantasia from the invasive Nothing.
The tale begins with four strange and wondrous messengers heading for the Ivory Tower to warn the Childlike Empress, the ruler of Fantasia. Each performs in their own perfect, quirky manner: they are the Will o’ the Wisp (Sylvie Haughey), Nighthob (Rudy Welsh), Tiny (Freya Cooper), and Rock-chewer (Milan Marshall). Upon arrival, they are told by a herald of the Childlike Empress, Cairon (Danielle Marquand), about the Empress’ condition and that a warrior named Atreyu is to save her.
Wai Ariki Tepania does an exceptional job as Atreyu, navigating a challenging quest with a mix of determination and vulnerability. He is joined in the beginning by his best friend and horse, Artax (Kace Pemberton).
Katie Parkes brilliantly portrayed Xayide, the cunning Mistress of The Emptiness. Joined excellently by Elliot Wilson as Gmork, their wolflike servant, they aimed to hinder Atreyu’s mission, appearing throughout the show alongside Xayide’s army.
Atreyu first meets a group of Bark Trolls who, after hearing of his quest, inform him of Morla; they also warn him of the swamp of sadness. In an emotional moment, well performed by both Kace and Wai Ariki, Atreyu loses his horse to the swamp. Standout performances from a humbly hilarious Zaira O’Donnell as Morla and Ivy Brunskill’s superb portrayal of the optimistic Falkor the luck dragon, bring heart and humour among the darker parts of the story; such as the nightmarish spiderlike being named Ygramul, played wickedly by Isla Kirk Orman.
The comedic duo of Engywook and Urgl, played by Josie Harder and Vida Bradbury, provides delightful moments enjoyed by all in attendance. These gnomes aided in Atreyu’s journey to see the wise Sphinxes at the Southern Oracle.
Bastian eventually realises he must name the Childlike Empress to wish for the return of Fantasia and its creatures. Fun performances came from the sad Acharis, who transformed into the brightly coloured, energetic Shlamoofs. Additionally, the youngest of the cast portrayed the Night Forest and its adorable inhabitants.
Bastian receives much praise for being a hero, something he is not used to. However, his desire for recognition leads him astray, and Xayide turns him against his friends.
Nonetheless, with the help of his new friends and the Serpentia of the Auryn (Lucia Quilter), Bastian drinks the water of life, returning him home. Here, he was able to use the essence of the water to help his father (Kaia Ridley) be happy again. Mr. Coreander tells Bastian in a final scene that while many visit Fantasia, few make lasting friendships such as the ones he made.
The stunning costumes by Miriam Hare and marvellous makeup and hair by Angela Fisher and Madeleine Alexander transport the cast and audience alike into a magical realm.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this remarkable production — Raglan Theatre Academy continues to impress, celebrating ten incredible years!