A Night of Song, Dance and Drama in CURTAINS UP!

In celebration of 40 years of an institution where one learnt music, speech ballet and drama under one roof, yes its none other than the one and only Marjorie de Alwis Activity school. Mrs. Marjorie de Alwis started the school in 1966, where the focal point was to enhance the learning of English through the medium of song, dance and drama.

Yes, although it has been 40 years, the school has produced many talented actors, educationist and musicians of repute. Living in a country where English is unfortunately spoken less, this lady thought otherwise. What better way to help children to learn the most vital language in the world through the medium of Arts?

The founder of the school has now handed over the great institution to the able hands to her daughter, Mrs. Menik de Alwis Jayasekera. Ably assisted by a talented group of dedicated teachers.

Therefore, what better way is there to celebrate a grand 40 years? CURTAINS UP is a celebration of song, dance and drama - all in one night. A wide range of students will perform on the stage. The ages ranging from five years to fourteen years.

According to Mrs. Jayasekera, her prime motive for this show is to showcase as many students as possible. She feels that attending classes of this nature, the classroom atmosphere is insufficient. The confidence one builds up on stage, being in costume with make up, on stage with lights-are all factors of a performer.

And she is adamant to provide this opportunity to each and every child who attends the school. Vinodh Senadeera is the director of the show and also the designer of the production. Vinodh needs no introduction to the local stage with years of experience in directing schools and local artists as well. His concept for this production is unique. For he too believes that all students need a chance on stage.

And the exposure should be fair and just. Therefore the initial process of casting such a mammoth cast was through auditions. But the talent was enormous, so he has decided to have two casts for the two nights.

For the celebration Vinodh has selected a wide range of themes and songs and styles. Not only has he kept mind the cast he has wisely taken care that all members of the audience will be treated to a good nights entertainment. The primary kids will bring to life a pot puree of well-loved Walt Disney songs.

With talented soloist taking the stage together with 100 kids attired in Walt Disney costumes. Following this will be the middle school performing an operetta titled The Gypsy's Reward.

The children tackle the message of peace and love unity through song, dance and drama. This colourful performance will no doubt enthrall young and old alike. The characters range from Kings, queens, gypsies to which craft to soldiers.

The final performance of the night is a beautiful folk tale Titled The Maharajah is Bored adapted to stage by Vinodh with additional song and dance. The seniors of the school have been at tough rehearsal routines mastering the Indian dances to music by the famous Indian Composer A. R. Rahaman.

The tale is yet again about peace and living in harmony as well as appreciating the little things in life. The young talented cast of 25 will bring the curtains down on this milestone production and a salute to the lady herself who started the school 40 years ago.

The production is directed by Vinodh Senadeera and co-directed by Sarah Jayasekera, produced by Menik de Alwis Jayasekera, Choreography is by Gelina Pleshakova and Chathuri Wickramaarachchi.

The costumes are handled by Mrs. Maya Rathnayake and Mrs. Rupa Weerasinghe. The lighting is handled by Troy Manatunga. The production goes on the Boards on October 14 and 15 at the Bishop's College Auditorium at 7 p.m.