This Summer Term, myself and fellow students from Years 7 & 8 performed the play ‘Heavy Weather’ by Lizzy Nunnery, receiving a humbling standing ovation. The play focuses on a girl named Mona who, after finding out the shocking reality of climate change, sets off on a kaleidoscopic journey in search of someone who understands her. She meets a number of people, all with different opinions on the next generation and the climate crisis: an influencer who cares more about her follower count, two patronising doctors who think young people are hopeless and in need of protection; a Guru who ignores what’s going on in the real world and gets people to dream up a perfect one; her own deadbeat mother… and more.  

As Mona interacts with these people, she learns the importance of surrounding herself with those who truly care about her. The play is incredibly thought-provoking and powerful, bringing to light the struggles that young people face as they start to better understand the world. I loved the challenge of portraying the complex and emotional character of Mona, as well as working with the rest of the talented cast. Rehearsals were so much fun; it was such a treat getting to work alongside my brilliant peers and director Ms Coles, who pushed us to work at our best. The performance was really brought to life through interesting movement sequences and even lifts, and every cast member performed to their absolute best on the night.  

I think this was the perfect way to showcase all the talent in the lower school, with younger pupils stepping up into lead roles. Audience members described the play as ‘uplifting’ and ‘captivating’, a real testament to the brilliance of the production and the hard work put into it. ‘Heavy Weather’ will certainly go down in Blackheath High School history, not only as the first ever Summer play, but as an impressive and impactful performance. I am so grateful to have been part of this project; it has been an unforgettable experience. 

Written by Ava, playing the lead role of ‘Mona’, Year 8