A couple of weeks ago, the Lower and Upper VI Classics and Drama students headed to London to see The Bacchae at the National Theatre — and what a night it was! From the moment the lights went down, we knew this wasn’t going to be a traditional version of Euripides’ play.

This new adaptation by Nima Taleghani, directed by Indhu Rubasingham, exploded with energy. There were rap battles, flashing lights, and a chorus that danced, sang, and shouted their way through the story. The production has had good reviews, with The Guardian calling it “a triumphant reinvention that pulses with defiance and joy” — and we could definitely see why.

What struck many of us most was the chorus. In ancient Greek theatre, the chorus usually comments on the action from the sidelines, offering moral reflections or guidance. But in this version, they took centre stage — loud, defiant, and constantly challenging the power structures around them. Rather than being observers, they were active participants, pushing the story forward and giving the play its heartbeat.

It was a brilliant evening that brought together what both Classics and Drama do best: helping us see how old stories can still speak powerfully to the modern world.