As part of efforts geared towards providing holistic education and nurturing the talents and creativity of young children, foremost educational institution, Chrisland Schools put together its maiden night of African dance and drama, tagged, A sympony of Stories: An Evening of Theatrical Wonders.
Attended by parents and stakeholders of the school, it featured two stage plays, dance and a fashion parade which the students enthusiastically partook in to the delight of the audience.
Director of Schools, Chrisland Schools, Ayoola Akinyeye, said the theme is aimed at celebrating the rich tapestry of African culture through dance, drama, stories and traditions that have shaped our heritage and continue to inspire our future. She said art is not just a form of entertainment, but a vital component of holistic education. “The performances are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our pupils and teachers and it is through the arts that we can inspire the next generation of leaders.”
Eleven-year-old, Year 6 pupil, Obaloluwa Layode, who played Odewale Ogundele, the tragic hero in Ola Rotimi’s The Gods Are Not To Blame, said he learned a lot of life lessons from playing the role. “It was not hard for me at all, I just told God to help me. I have strong passion for acting and want to be an actor when I grow up and playing this role has only fueled my desire to be an actor,” he said.
A parent, Ayokunle Babasanya-Craig, praised the school and the pupils, adding that he was pleasantly surprised at the level of quality, enthusiasm and attention to detail that was put into the presentation. He added that he, as well as other parents would love to see more extra-curricular activities held for the students. “Hopefully, we can have this annually and more time given to help them prepare. My child was in the play and if she decides to become an actor, I would support her fully,” he said.
Another parent, Elvis Obaleke, commended the production, adding that all the children delivered, especially the boy who played the king in The Gods are Not To Blame.
“This is a great idea and it can only get better. Arts and entertainment is making waves all over the world and people are making a good living from it. We cannot all be in STEM, we need arts to create a healthy balance.”
Bukola Olateru, mother to Olamide Olateru, who played the role of Alaka in The Gods are Not To Blame, also commended the school management and the young actors for the presentation. “It didn’t look like children acting, we were held spell-bound with every presentation. We were surprised to see how well they all handled themselves and I strongly believe drama and these kinds of activities help form children’s critical thinking, help them express themselves better as art is all about expression and showcasing of talents. Beyond the classroom, we need to teach children how to develop themselves. People are making millions from arts and entertainment these days and this is a good way to help them harness their talents. The school must do this annually,” she said. Her son Olamide, who said this is his first major production, said he had to work very hard to perfect his role and wishes to pursue acting in the future.
Head, Risk Compliance and Safeguarding Units, Chrisland Schools, Kemi Fajemirokun, said they believe in all round education and as a way to develop the total child, arts play a strong role in achieving this. “The children themselves came up with the idea of a drama night. In the past, we did variety nights but Covid-19 affected that. We started preparing for this in April and the children really surprised me with their energy and dedication and this is the beginning of many more. I believe every child is a star and we are helping them develop that star in them.”
