“Big Apple” – a programme of music and dance – was performed by Elizabeth Moir School in November at the Lionel Wendt. Director – Aida Mansoor; assistant director – Francesca Mudannayake; music director – Sureka Amerasinghe; choreographers – Francesca Mudannayake and Amar Riyaz.

In the Director’s own words, “Amar Riyaz and Francesa Mudannayake are easily two of the most talented dancers this school has produced. Their styles are so contrasting, yet so captivating, their genres opposite but enthralling. I decided to choose a theme that played to their strengths, and what better, than the timeless gender war – a bevy of sophisticated young ladies versus a gang of street boys.” The show was set in New York City, naturally. And what could be more exciting than to call it “Big Apple”, thereby setting the stage for a dramatic standoff between the Brooklyn Boys and a bevy of beautiful young girls from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The “plot” was simple but stylishly executed.

The standard of performing arts in the Colombo as well as the outstation schools has shown a steady improvement since the 1980s, which goes to show that when the economy is freed of excessive controls and restrictions, it yields a range of social and cultural benefits. That is to say, when easy access to information and technology is provided through fundamental economic policy change, individuals as well as institutions are quick to seize the opportunity to expand their creative and scientific horizons and to enhance their overall performance levels. Nowadays, we take these things for granted but prior to the economic liberalization, Sri Lanka was relatively backward in terms of information communication and technology (ICT) due to our inward-looking policies, characterized by excessive economic restrictions and administrative controls.

“Big Apple” was an exceptionally good show – one of the best school productions seen in recent years. Prior to the economic liberalization, one did not see quality productions of this nature. Now it’s a different ball game. Children are fearlessly employing advanced audio-visual techniques and special effects in their school shows; and the overall standard of singing and dancing is also much higher now than 30 years ago.

The “Big Apple” was stunning in respect of backdrops, costumes, sound, lights and music. The lighting, though good overall, was off the mark at times, with one or two soloists singing in shadow. With thoughtful and effective use of spots, the lighting could have been improved dramatically. The management and overall quality of sound was superb.

The live band consisting of Sureka Amerasinghe (keyboards) and Amaan Kulatunga (drums) was outstanding and without it, the show would have lost some of its flair and magic. Sureka was recently appointed Music Director of Elizabeth Moir School and her own arrangement of the songs (20 in all) for keyboards, drums and voices was something to behold, especially the jazz accompaniments. Here is a truly gifted artist who enjoys working with children and is dedicated to raising the bar in the performing arts. Elizabeth Moir School is indeed lucky to have her.

When I heard the music I was transported to another world, for so charming were the renditions of the New York and Broadway medleys and other well-known songs, such as “Hips Don’t Lie,” “They Don’t Care About Us”, and “If I Ain’t Got You”. The soloists and the choir performed with a great deal of poise and finesse. (A little more serious voice training and they would be exceptional.) The choreography too (Amar, Francesca and others) was impressive and showed a level of maturity and sophistication that surpassed all expectations.

The dance ensemble came up with a lively and spirited performance, though timing and coordination were lacking at times. The soloists, on the other hand, were spot on. It was a treat to watch a bunch of talented kids who could sing as well as dance. But in both departments, more training is needed.

All in all, an unforgettable evening. Hats off to Elizabeth Moir School for taking the art of creative and artistic expression to a higher level. “Big Apple” was a bold and innovative production – a breath of fresh air.