CHS students had the privilege of watching a touring production, Fire: A Princess’ Guide to Burning Issues, devised by Historic Royal Palaces and performed by the theatre company Scary Little Girls
The show tells the story of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, an Indian-British suffragette whose life bridged royalty and activism.
Despite her privileged background - as daughter of the deposed Maharaja Duleep Singh and goddaughter to Queen Victoria - Sophia chose to devote her life to political justice. The play depicts her involvement with the Women’s Tax Reform League, her bold protests for women’s suffrage, and her broader commitment to equality and identity.
The performance includes high-energy, interactive elements. Students not only witnessed key moments - such as Sophia campaigning, nursing Indian soldiers, and leading a 10,000-woman protest march - but were also invited to step into roles, helping bring her story to life.
At CHS, the show was scheduled so that Year 9 saw it in Period 1, Year 8 in Period 3, and Year 7 in Period 5. Meanwhile, KS4 Drama students enjoyed a dedicated Q&A session in Period 4, giving them the chance to ask the cast about the creative process, historical research, and what it’s like touring with a schools production.
The visit was more than just theatre - it offered a meaningful way for students to explore important themes of equality, heritage, and activism through a personal and historical lens.
We thank Historic Royal Palaces and Scary Little Girls for bringing this powerful production to life in our school.
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Chichester High School