This time Kamaraj memorial Hall was jam-packed with students, parents and teachers streaming into the biggest hall in the city to watch the much-awaited golden jubilee celebrations of the PSBB Group of
Schools.
It was a four-day long programme. Leela Samson, the director of Kalakshetra Foundation had graced the occasion as the chief guest of the celebrations. This year’s anniversary programme was titled ‘The Golden Page to the Golden Stage’. And the best performances from the past years’ programmes were presented again.
The programme commenced with a prayer to Lord Ganesha after which the choir group of all the three branches of PSBB took over the stage.
Alladin with his monkey – friend named Abu were brought to life by the T.Nagar school students. This was actually performed in the academic year 1991-92. Followed was a performance by the students of both K.K.Nagar and T.Nagar schools. It was based on Lord Krishna, the universally known best friend who through his seven manifestations exemplifies the girdle of friendship. Episodes relevant were portrayed in dance forms like Manipuri, Kathakali, Kamruki dance, Odissi and Kathak. These episodes were taken from the years 2004 and 2005.
The Nungambakkam students then got the chance to show off their skills. They did a dance drama named ‘King and I’, which was originally performed by students between the years 1994 and 95. This dance drama was actually the Siamese version of ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’.
Valli Thirumanam was next on the list which was performed by the K.K.Nagar students. This was a drama taken from the year 1984-85 about Valli who was proposed by Lord Kumara. Scenes of her refusing the proposal and later marrying the Lord were presented on the stage.
After this drama, the K,K.Nagar students performed a tale with a twist.
Wondering what was it?
It was Oliver Twist live on stage! This performance was quite thought provoking especially for students as in this tale, Oliver discovers his potential through a very difficult and arduous path taught by his enlightened tutor. This tale was performed earlier in the year 1993-94.
The second last performance was by the Nungambakkam school students. It was a Tamil play aptly titled ‘Isai Vyabhaaram’. It was about a garrulous man and his humourous experience with a musician. The original was penned by R. K. Narayan and was enacted for the first time in 2001- 02 at PSBB. This play was a translated version and served as the golden jubilee tribute to this exquisite writer. Though it was humourous, it also set the minds of the audience to ponder over the bitter truth globalization has consumed the quality of Indian dance and music.
A joint performance where students of all the three schools performed was the finale of the programme. Named Colonial Cousins, this piece was a spectacular dance to the fabulous tune of the very famous song ‘Krishna Ni Begane Baaro’ This wonderful piece was formerly performed by the students in the academic year 1999 – 2000.
Highlights of the activities of the school, address by the chief guest, vote of thanks and lastly the National Anthem brought down the curtains.
Saniya joined the Team YOCee as Student Reporter for the year 2007 – 08. She continues to report for YOCee since then.
Saniya is a student of Padma Seshadri Bal Bhavan, Nungambakkam branch. She has a concern for the world around her. Protection of environment and making young people aware of the benefits of green and pollution-free environment is her mission. She writes on her blog – http://aspireblog.wordpress.com/