PUPILS have been given the chance to create a new play entirely in British Sign Language thanks to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Teenagers from St Roch's Secondary worked with deaf actor Petre Dobre and theatre company Wonder Fools to transform the play The Pack by author Stef Smith.
Their unique version was performed for the rest of the school - a first school show after more than a year of the pandemic.
Mhairi Quinn, pastoral care teacher and drama teacher said: "Being able to be in a room again and see familiar faces away from screen and creating then performing work to people was the most important part.
"We have all been locked in our rooms alone with a screen and it's been quite sad.
"To be back in an assembly hall with people and to be able to work together in their own language were so important.
"They worked seven hours a day for five days and were exhausted at the end of each day but were back every morning raring to go.
"They had a lovely, lovely time."
As part of the RSC's widening access to the creative industries scheme, pupils from S1 to S6 worked with Petre and Jack Nurse and Robbie Gordon from Wonder Fools.
They had two BSL interpreters to support the process and were delighted to meet a professional deaf actor and role model.
Tegan, 14, said: "During the performance on stage I felt strong and brave.
"I haven't seen my friends for a long time so I was so happy being back with them and acting again."
Fellow young actor Patrick, 15, added: "I really grew in confidence. I felt happy being with friends and getting to do drama every day."
Tegan, who wants to study drama at the RCS
But they have missed performing in person and were delighted to be back with friends again.
Parents and carers are still not allowed to attend shows due to covid restrictions but will have a second chance to see the play in August.
The process of creating and performing the work was filmed and is being turned into a documentary so the school will host a special screening after the summer holidays with popcorn and treats.
Armaan, 17, said: "I felt very proud of what we achieved. I loved it, it was good being part of a team again and using a lot of energy.
"It was good that it was focusing on deaf people."
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