Mirror Magazine - A spectacular journey

If you were not at one of Ruwani Seimon’s shows on the weekend of August 18, you might have missed the most spectacular musical production in recent months. Presented by Voices in Harmony, ‘A musical journey’ was a celebration of twelve years of training with this highly-acclaimed music director.

Over 90 choristers of various ages participated in the event that featured a broad spectrum of music and diverse singing styles displaying not only competency but a high level of proficiency while bringing out potential, beyond the expectations of the gathering.

To start with – a montage of images drifted across a backdrop giving the audience a glimpse of immense preparation put in for the ninth production by Voices in Harmony.

There followed an incredible line-up of a vast selection of songs by the Senior Choir. Evergreen and flash back numbers (from Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Super Star, Grease, The Little Mermaid, etc.) flowed one after another, their rich tones filling the auditorium.

Interspersed with the group numbers, solo and duet items such as “Amigos Para Siempre” by Anagi Perera and Charith Peris and “Power of Love” by Dilini Perera provided a good mix of entertainment.

It’s no simple task to sing in harmony with a couple of dozen other people especially without the accompaniment of instruments. But this was achieved seemingly at ease in the songs “Killing Me Softly” and “Yesterday.”

Depicting a multi-national flavour, “Mbube” was a lively entrée by the junior choir that had participants as young as six years old singing and dancing to the African tribal beat.

In stunning costumes, they delighted the audience with Pocahontas and other pop songs.

An original by Ruwani, “Say, Please, Say,” was certainly topical, while singers urged of listeners to say ‘no’ to war and ‘yes’ to peace.

Arranged by Mahesh Denipitiya, the Folk Fusion added a brilliant local essence to the night’s entertainment, while Salaam Bombay revealed Bollywood influences.

More than anything else, the items revealed the ability of participants’ to sing in harmony in various languages in addition to dancing.

By adapting the popular songs and fusing them with English lyrics, the energetic group made them their own.

At a given time there were around 40 students on stage that enhanced the effect. Special screens were used that slid down to facilitate line up or scene changes, perfectly timed and choreographed.

Further, each of the participants took part in several items that required a change of costumes and hairdo. How they managed to do so is remarkable.

Best of all there appeared a wonderful sense of camaraderie among the participants that goes deeper than the music, credited perhaps from working together to make the event happen and the desire to give it their best.

Coming at a time when it is important to introduce harmony into the world, Ruwani needs applause.

Of the many students who had done Trinity College exams, whether any of them would go into a singing career or not – the concept they presented in integrated theatre that requires to be able to dance, sing and act was highly professional.

Ruwani’s passion for the craft was evident and this she has passed on to her protégées, encouraging them to attempt complex works and reach greater heights.

Last show or not, it was apparent that she was inspirational in bringing out talents in so many children – not just in singing but in other aspects of organising a show, discipline remaining a vital ingredient.

For it is said that once singing gets into the blood, it is there for life.

Proceeds of the show will go towards treatment of the less affluent cancer patients.