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| Sunday,13 November 2005 |
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Musically Yours:
A fine display of youthful talent When I sat down to watch Musically Yours at the Wendt on October 21, I had extremely high expectations of the evening's entertainment. For one, this was the famed Bridgetine choir performing, and for another, this was Ruwani Seimon directing. The performance left me in no doubt about the quality of either, and the consistent dedication to perfection that was displayed by everyone, down to the last little singer, was absolutely praiseworthy. The evening began on a spiritual note, probably in keeping with the religious affiliations of the school. The choir was dressed to suit the theme, and the fervour of the singing was in harmony with the items chosen. The mood changed quite dramatically with the solo 'fever', which was seductively rendered by one of the choir leaders. I thought that this was quite commendable, considering that the entire front row was made up of the good sisters of the convent! The evening proceeded with several solo items as well as group items. I felt that there was good use of the soloists, who helped to vary the mood, and also gave the choir enough time to change costumes and come back on stage, ensuring continuity and a smooth flow in the programme. Many of the soloists impressed, and it was impossible to say that many of them were singing for the first time, as they displayed a maturity and confidence well beyond their years. I was happy to see an ethnic component coming in, with the 'Baila surprise'. This was an item done with no music, but with the choir supplying its own beat as well as sound. This reviewer has long felt that singing need not be dominated by Western songs, and that it is important to value the local music tradition, which is rich in its rhythmic earthiness. It was also interesting to see the audience' reaction to this. Several adolescents in the balcony sniggered, probably because they did not know how to handle local culture when presented with style, and probably because they may not have expected the Bridgetine choir to even know how to speak Sinhala! However, I am glad that this component has now become a regular feature in the choir's repertoire, and I hope it will continue in the future as well. The past pupils also contributed with an item comprising a few well-known songs such as 'Fire' 'I know him so well' and 'Will you be there'. It was good to see the choristers of several years ago come together and perform so professionally, despite having left school and having to deal with the pressures of work and higher education. I shall conclude with a note on my favourite item of the evening-the segment from 'Bombay dreams'. This item combined some wonderful singing with visual splendour to create a magnificent finale to the show. Having watched the original musical on Broadway last year, I was completely amazed by what I saw on stage that evening at the Wendt. This choir's performance surpassed even the singing in the original! The costumes for this show were colourfully done and very appropriate-specially for the Indian and local segments, and the changes were slick. I understand that no parents are allowed backstage, and that each chorister has to be responsible for all her changes and accessories. The choreography was creative and evidenced much practice. All in all it was music and showmanship at its best, and a truly enjoyable evening of entertainment. - Cassandra |
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