Kumarayek Upadee in Borella today

by W. Annesley Sumith Fernando

Pealing bells, enchanting carols and the incessant misty breeze herald the dawn of Christmas. St. Peter's Church, Koralawella was transformed into the cattle-shed where the Baby of Bethlehem was born. Staging the nativity play Kumarayek Upadee (A Prince is Born) at the Parish Hall of St. Peter's was the reason behind this transformation.

The nativity play which faithfully depicted the events behind Christ's Birth gained in significance as all characters were enlivened by the parishioners of St. Peter's Church, Koralawella.

The soul stirring storyline, equally appealing dialogue, rich and artistic resembling the biblical times and styles and superb acting captivated the hearts and minds of the parishioners and the audience who thronged in their numbers.

The play became the talk of the town for days.

Kumara Ratnayake and Rushini Weliwatta played the roles of St. Joseph and Mother Mary, in style and with aplomb and carried the audience along the flight of the Holy family.

Following its successful staging at St. Peter's Koralawella, a series of requests were made with the producers to have the play staged at several other parishes. The request from St. Luke's Borella won the day and the reason was that Rev. Fr. Lenin. John Marshall, the incumbent of St. Luke's has sown the seeds for this play when he was serving at St. Peter's Koralawella. The producers wanted to pay due regard and respect to Rev. Fr. Marshall for his contribution by staging the play at St. Luke's first ever of its outings. Sankalpa de Mel, an active member of Koralawella parish has shouldered all responsibilities for the story, dialogue and directions.

He is a veteran actor cum director having a number stage plays and teledramas under his belt. As a professional, he has put to good use the expertise at his disposal for the success of the nativity play. It is a matter of great significance to see Rev. Fr. Niroshan de Mel, the incumbent of St. Peter's Koralawella who contributed in good measure to the success of the play, playing a leading role with effortless case and style. This nativity play will be staged at St. Luke's Borella today at 5 pm.