As an NSTA representative, I had the absolute pleasure of witnessing Bloxham School’s vibrant and exhilarating performance of Treasure Island on Thursday 4th December 2025, directed by Joe Hornsby, Director of Drama at Bloxham School. While guided by Hornsby’s unmistakable vision, the production radiated with the energy of a true ensemble effort, with every member of the company contributing creativity and commitment to bring the story to life.
Treasure Island tells the story of young Jim Hawkins, who discovers a pirate’s map and joins a voyage to find buried treasure, unaware of the dangers ahead. On reaching the island, Long John Silver leads a mutiny, forcing Jim and the loyal crew into a desperate struggle for survival. Through courage and quick thinking, Jim helps outwit the pirates, secure the treasure, and return safely home.
From the moment I stepped into the venue, I was swept into an adventure; I was even escorted to my seat as part of the preshow, further immersing me in the unfolding world. The billowing sails stretched across the ceiling, the rugged rigs, and the carefully placed barrels transformed the space into a living, breathing seascape. It felt as though the entire set leaned forward and whispered an irresistible promise of excitement, mystery, and wonder, inviting the audience to embark on a journey we would not soon forget.
We were soon introduced to Captain Nathaniel Flint, the lively, imagined pirate who springs from Jim Hawkins’s mind, played innocently and fearlessly by Rosie, the moment he discovers the map. Daniel’s portrayal of Flint was a real gem, demonstrating perfectly how to build audience rapport while tackling the challenges of a traverse stage. With a playful mix of charm and mischief, Daniel drew the audience into the unfolding adventure.
The double act of Doctor David Livesey and Squire Joan Trelawney, played by Cyrus and Anna respectively, was an absolute delight, two performers sailing together with charm, wit, and impeccable timing. Cyrus captured the Doctor’s analytical, academic nature with wonderful authenticity, grounding the character while still delivering sharp, well-placed humour that paired brilliantly with Anna’s spirited and buoyant Squire. Together, they were a treasure chest of laughs, and it was clear the audience was more than happy to climb aboard their scenes every time they set foot on deck.
The deceptive character of Long John Silver was played wonderfully by Ed, who brought a true pirate’s edge to the role. His menacing presence, expressed through a tense, gravelled voice and a piercing, cutlass-sharp stare, made him both frightening and utterly gripping to watch. Ed steered Silver with a steady hand, letting the character’s simmering menace rise, especially in his interactions with his own crew, giving the audience the thrill of watching a villain who was always just one storm away from unleashing his full fury.
While individual performers certainly shone, the ensemble proved to be the production’s greatest treasure. Every pupil mastered their role with confidence and flair, and the way they worked together was nothing short of mesmerising, a true crew in perfect harmony. Through original songs, bold physicality, and a vibrant command of atmosphere, they charted the course of the entire adventure, carrying the audience with them as willingly as stowaways. A standout moment came when we finally set sail: the great sails above us suddenly billowed with wind, ropes were heaved in unison, and for a heartbeat it felt as though cast and audience alike had launched into open waters together. It was pure theatrical magic. The appearance of the ingenious kraken, with its glowing UV-lit ropes swirling like tentacles from the deep, was a spectacular crowd-pleaser and an inventive sea monster that rightfully earned every gasp it elicited. The cast’s joy was unmistakable; they were clearly having a whale of a time, and that infectious energy swept through the hall like a warm tide, pulling the audience along for the entire voyage.
This production sailed far beyond the horizon of a typical school show, immersing the audience in a world of adventure and genuine emotion. It was a shining example of how drama can shape young people, revealing just how much talent, teamwork, and creative spirit the pupils and staff had tucked away in their treasure chest.
National School Theatre Awards
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