A festival of English theatre is always a treat to be a part of because it is not a competition and gives you the chance to be a part of the true essence of drama.
And it was with this idea in mind, that Bishop’s College, Colombo will be organising the Inter School English Drama Festival.
The festival will be held this month, with the participation of eight schools. The hosts, Bishop’s College aside, the other seven schools who will be part of the festival, are: Ladies’ College, Methodist College, Royal College, St. Joseph’s College, St. Peter’s College, Good Shepherd Convent, Kotahena and Trinity College, Kandy.
The drama festival kicked off with a workshop on April 24, conducted by two renowned theatre personalities who need no introduction – Mohamed Adamally and Tracy Holsinger. The project is being co-ordinated by Clare de Silva, Jith Peiris and Nafeesa Amirudeen.
“The workshop conducted by Mr. Mohamed Adamally and Ms. Tracy Holsinger brought the actors and actresses together and we were happy that they enjoyed themselves,” said Hemamali Bibile, Principal, Bishop’s College, adding, “They were able to get to know each other and to share their experiences and expertise.” She also said, “As it is not a competition, we expect these children to give of their best.”
The main aim of the festival is to encourage theatre, “We want to get rid of the competitive spirit,” said Mrs. de Silva and Mr. Peiris, adding, “It’s for the appreciation of drama.” They went on to explain that drama is for learning and what is learnt should be shared with the students from the schools participating in the festival.
Charlotte Bronte, Charles Dickens, Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde, Hendrik Ibsen and Anton Chekov are the dramatists that these young theatre enthusiasts have to choose from. And they will have to present a 25 minute excerpt.
Mr. Peiris said that there will be an exhibition prior to the performances, at the foyer. “It will be based on the life and works of their respective dramatists and will be assisted by the British Council,” he said, adding, “This will enhance the knowledge of all the participants about their respective dramatists along with their lifestyle and works.”
The Inter School English Drama Festival hosted by Bishop’s College, will be held at the Bishops College Auditorium on May 22 and 23 at 7pm. Ticket will be available at the auditorium. The event will be sponsored by Interocean Energy and Ishuē International while the media sponsor is The Sunday Times. |
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