Short play dramatises kids’ experiences of bushfires

Students from Kindlehill School share their thoughts on the play ‘Time to Leave.’

Students of Kindlehill School recently attended a performance of ‘Time to Leave,’ a short play by local playwright, Liz Barclay, where they gave it glowing reviews.

Helena and Clancy in ‘Time to Leave’ - performed by Helena Zadro-Jones and Clancy McIlveen

The play tells the story of two sisters, Charlie, 9, and Lucy, 19, (played by local actresses Clancy McIlveen and Helena Zadro-Jones) who live in the Megalong Valley and are told that they have to leave their home as a bushfire is approaching.

Clancy McIlveen playing Charlie

The play explores the practical and emotional dimensions of that all-to-real scenario for many children living in the Blue Mountains. 

In fact, during the Q & A session after the performance, it was revealed that twelve children in the audience had personally experienced being evacuated from their homes.

Although dealing with a serious issue, the play has moments of humour, emotional connection, fun and includes a peaceful visualisation.

Helena Zadro-Jones playing Lucy

After the performance kids provided feedback on the play and provided thoughtful comments such as; “I thought it was a really good play because it raises awareness” and “I liked the play because it is useful to know what to do in a crisis.”

Other kids commented that the play “was really funny,” while another said; “I liked how calm Charlie’s sister was and how they were scared but they kept going.”

Finally, one enthusiastic audience member said of the play “You guys are geniuses!”

The play will soon be performed at other Blue Mountains schools. Watch this space for further details.