Ruckus in the Garden

by David Farr

Published 20 March 2007

Ruckus in the Garden is a very funny look at the pressures of being a teenager in school today. The play is accompanied by teaching materials containing fantastic ideas for drama work, as well as other activities designed to answer English Framework and NC objectives.

When Riverdale Comprehensive and St Nectan’s Grant Maintained find themselves in the garden of Cecil Fortescue on a school trip, a ruckus is inevitable. It’s customary that when these two schools meet , violence ensues; and many of the pupils are relishing the opportunity of a scrap.

However magic and mystery wait amongst the topiary in the form of Cupid who brings about transformations and confusions, both romantic and hilarious.

With a modern and accessible nod towards A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this play is a fast-paced, thoughtful and very entertaining look at the trials of being fifteen.