Tara Arts Theatre Company transfixed its JAPS audience with a vibrant adaptation of the Hindu story of Prince Rama and his wife Sita. The narration was so evocative. ‘Two big tears roll down the old king’s cheeks as he waves goodbye to his son. The River Ganges was as calm as a feather on your arm. That was the day the lights went out.’

The children watched intently as two expressive actors in vivid costume against a beautiful backdrop used the simplest of props to tell the tale of how good triumphs over evil. Gloves, masks, fans, a length of translucent red fabric became birds, butterflies, golden deer, monkeys and the ten-headed demon, Ravana. We whirled through storms and skies, bathed in rivers and oceans, visited forests and islands, laughed and despaired.

Afterwards Y4 Amber announced that she loved being part of the bridge and Elodie and Clodia, said the best bit was – all of it! Now they know where the story of Diwali comes from – the people were so happy that they lit little oil lamps to guide Rama and Sita back to the city. So that is why our days are filled with sun again.