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The Bancroft Play 2025: The Jellyfish Effect
Each year, Lancing College celebrates student creativity through the Bancroft Play, an annual one-act production written and performed by pupils. Established in memory of Donald Bancroft – an inspirational English and Classics teacher, accomplished short story writer, and passionate advocate for the arts – the tradition continues to foster new talent in playwriting and performance.
This year’s winning play, The Jellyfish Effect, was written by John H (Fourth Form) and brought to life on the Lancing stage. The production showcased the ingenuity and talent of our young playwrights and actors.
The Bancroft Play is a highlight of the College’s drama calendar, and we were delighted to welcome Rosalind and Alex Rees, the daughter and grandson of Donald Bancroft, once again to the College theatre to witness the next generation of Lancing writers in action. The legacy of Donald Bancroft lives on, inspiring students to craft compelling stories and bring them to the stage.
Being Isaac, the mad scientist, did not require much acting from me; the role fit me like a glove and I would be lying to say I didn’t enjoy smashing (mostly) fake glass equipment. It was an honour to have Donald Bancroft’s daughter among the audience and I can only hope I did justice to her father’s initiative. Being Casper’s final theatrical performance at Lancing, he made the Jellyfish effect nothing short of his grand finale at Lancing, but this is by no means his swansong in the drama world. It was also a privilege and delight to act alongside Pippa (who reappeared in The Pillowman painted green), who, as she is in real life, was the refreshing voice of reason and for her signature flair and energy she is deserving of a full-throated bravissimo. Not to forget, without Mr Chandler’s theatrical acumen, advice and timely wit, the performance would not have been the spectacle it was. I find it impressive that the Bancroft award, a stronghold of the 6th form (and Saint’s house) was won this year won by a Fourth Former; John’s literary forte is something to watch in the coming years, even moreso after his time at Lancing; let’s not limit Lancing’s double Oscar-laureates to just two. Bravo to everybody!
Hilmi M, Fifth Form
Donald Bancroft, founder of the annual Donald Bancroft Prize for Playwrights.