Students of Hope Academy performing the popular play, ‘Matilda’ on the evening of December 16 at the school’s premises located in Seitheke Basa, Chümoukedima. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | December 16
Students of Hope Academy delivered a memorable performance of the play, ‘Matilda’ in front of families, friends and especially proud parents who gathered on the evening of December 16 at the school’s premises located in Seitheke Basa, Chümoukedima to watch the 90-hour long theatrical experience.
The drama has been adapted based on the popular children’s novel of the same name written by British author, Roald Dahl released in 1988. In the story, it revolves around the main protagonist, Matilda Wormwood, a five-year old girl who is endowed with the magical gift of telekinesis and her interactions with friends, family and school life.
Through the protagonist, Matilda, the play also aimed to encourage the students to revive the habit of reading which seems to have pared down in the present generation with the advent of smart phones and other technologies.
The musical play featured a total of 25 characters, 44 choir members and 26 dancers from Grade 4 to Grade 12 students.
Speaking as the special guest of the evening, Dr Atoho Jakhalu, Director of Climate Studies & Knowledge Solution Centre, Government of Nagaland viewed that the event should not be viewed as a novelty project but rather a profound experience of developing a child’s cognitive ability.
“There are scientific affirmations that it improves their creativity, confidence, team work, leadership skills, focus and greater emotional resilience,” he stated.
Jakhalu also advocated the view that parents should do away with the misconception that taking part in extracurricular activities will affect a child’s academic performance. “In fact it’s the other way around, it contributes to better learning experience of your child,” he added.
He also mentioned that other developed countries expose their children to such qualities and values at an early age, and encouraged Hope Academy to keep pursuing in the same endeavor.
Sashila Ozukum, Principal of Hope Academy meanwhile illustrated that the drama was above all else a celebration of their students, of not just the participants but the overall contribution made by one and all.
She reported that the curriculum of Drama, introduced in the school way back in 2013 has today helped shape and develop several of their students who have went on to become budding young actors and actresses.
“Many parents have asked, why drama? Well it builds a person’s character, throughout the months of practice it has helped built friendships and have created lifetime bonds with each other,” she said.
In this regard she remarked, “It was not easy to put this act together, asit unfolds this evening, so I believe that every child needs to be applauded today for the meticulous effort they have put in.”
The play had been divided into three acts which include thirteen scenes, eleven songs and five dances.
