The Royal Hunt of the Sun, by Peter Shaffer, was the winter play presented by the Verdala Drama Club at Verdala International School, Fort Pembroke, earlier this month.

This famous play, written in the 1960s, tells the story of the 16th century conquest of Peru by the Spaniards in their search for gold and how it led both to the destruction of the Inca Empire and the eventual ruin of Spain.

It was a stunning visual experience, with a symbolic set, dominated by a huge medallion which turned into a golden Inca sun, Spanish armour and uniforms, Peruvian masks and headdresses worn with simple Indian clothing, with atmospheric and at times eerie lighting effects. This, with the backing of beautiful music from the Pan Pipes of the Andes, produced a truly memorable production.

Madeleine Collins played Pizarro, who led the Spanish expedition with determination to find both gold and fame. The Inca king, Atahuallpa - noble, remote and mystical - was played by Nicholas Darmanin.

'Young' and 'Old' Martin were played by Andre Chehab and Roberto Dicosta respectively. Together they captured the transition from youthful enthusiasm to later disillusionment with the ideals of chivalry and nobility in conquest.

The cast of over 40 was supported by students working on the technical aspects of production as part of the Theatre Arts course and the CAS programme of the International Baccalaureate programme, which is offered at the school. Students controlled the sound and lighting systems, designed the set, worked on make-up and made the props and armour. It was a huge team effort and a great success.