The 2006 Junior Play was The Willow Pattern by Judith Johnson. It is based on an ancient Chinese story which was popularized in the 19th century when the willow pattern became a fashionable design for china. The Victorians loved the story of a strict Mandarin whose only daughter falls in love and runs away with someone he does not approve of. It is a story about adolescent rebellion and the tragic consequences of anger and revenge. The story has been given a contemporary treatment in this play which was written in 2004. Each year, sponsored by Shell, Britain's National Theatre holds a competition inviting writers to create plays specifically for young adults. The finalists are published and the winners are staged at the National Theatre. Last year's senior production, After Juliet, was also part of the Shell Connections series of plays.

Traf's new stage was inaugurated with the play's opening matinée on November 21.  Parents and friends were invited to the evening performance on November 22. Director Louise Standjofski described the performance as "old meets new". Judith Johnson breathed new life into a very old legend. The ancient love story played so beautifully in the new performance space. The play borrowed from old Oriental theatre and mixed it with today's modern music. Audiences were entertained with singing, dancing, mime and even martial arts. In the words of the director, the "cast and crew were truly inspirational".

Click here for photos.