b'GothicSeasonWhen you think of Gothic, then you must first think of Halloween and Dracula, and if you do then you are Fair is foul, entirely right. This year we had a Gothic Season, and it was super fun, and all the memories I have made have built up my understanding of everything Gothic. First, we had a talk with and foul is fair Doctor Going about everything Gothic; and after that we were shown A Christmas Carol, a production by the Quantum Theatre Company. We also had Gothic Tutor Time where we had a chance to win bone-shaped pens and flying bats. Best of all Following the success of Shakespeare Seasonwas Strictly Talk Gothic, the speech competition won by in 2024, Gothic Season was a literary festivalstudents in Years 8 and 9. which took place at Handsworth Grammar SchoolSarbpreet Chattu, Year 8in January and February 2025, a three-week celebration of all things mysterious, sinister and spooky. The Gothic genre is a perennial favourite of writers, an area of creativity and imagination which draws readers and moviegoers into darkHave you ever heard of a school that has a whole season tales of the supernatural, intrigue and murder,dedicated to the genre of Gothic? This tantalising adventures which make us unable to put a Gothicexploration unfolded at Handsworth Grammar School for story book down, or keep us on the edges of ourBoys, where an extraordinary series of events intricately wove seats at the cinema. together the rich tapestry of Gothic literature. Each occasion was Working with leading scholars in the genrenot merely an activity; it was a compelling invitation for students to from the Centre for the History of the Gothicdelve into the complexities of human experience, engaging deeply at Sheffield University, students were offered awith themes that resonate across time and culture. From host of opportunities to discover for themselvesintellectually stimulating discussions to exhilarating performances, why Gothic is so gripping, suspenseful andthis celebration of Gothic culture was a veritable cornucopia for the entertaining, through activities in lessons, in tutormind, igniting curiosity and fostering a passionate love for literature.time and outside of school hours. Here, studentsThe excitement reached fever pitch with a stunning performance share their memories and impressions of thoseof Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by the esteemed Big Brum Theatre first few dark and overcast weeks of 2025, a timeCompany. The actors breathed life into this classic tale of duality of year when Light thickens, and the crow makesand moral conflict, captivating the audience with their dynamic wing to th rooky wood. Good things of day beginportrayals and haunting atmosphere. While I initially dismissed the to droop and drowse, while nights black agents toplay as an antiquated narrative, I soon found myself enraptured by their preys do rouse the raw emotion and psychological depth of the characters. This transformation reaffirmed my belief in the power of live performance; it illustrated that the themes of identity and ethics explored in the play are not just historical curiosities but relevant issues that challenge us today.Saifan Khan, Year 1032'