The WILD madcaps

Bengalureans are in for a treat next Thursday as a bevy of Bethany High School students will take to the stage in song and dance. Presenting a completely in-house musical Madagascar — A Musical Adventure comes this refreshing tale that is entirely produced and performed by the students of Bethany High with a cast of over 150 students from Grade 1 to Grade 12. Enter the world of Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria and don’t forget the hilarious penguins as they travel to the Wild i.e. Madagascar to the kingdom of King Julien.

Deeksha Mirael who will be dancing to three songs in the musical says, “It has been a great opportunity for me to showcase my talents. I have a lot to take away from this musical, and the experience has been great. Practise makes perfect and these practise sessions have really benefited everyone.” As you walk along with these animated and hilarious characters, Catherine Dorairaj who essays the role of Skipper says, “Skipper is a great leader. He is like a brotherly figure to the other three penguins, and he has literally raised Private. I auditioned for this role as it has been my favourite.”

The musical is something both the young and old can enjoy. Akash Ryall, director of Bethany Group of Institutions says, “The drama and music department put their heads together, and came up with this musical. It talks about friendship, hardship, adventure and all the things lacking in today’s world.” Bringing together over 150 kids who are singing, dancing and acting is not an easy task but the drama department has pulled this off. It takes a lot of effort to work with children, but our support system has enabled us to pull this off. All the parents have been supportive, teachers have pitched in looking after the children, and getting them organised.” Seats for the musical have already been sold out. And earlier performances have left the audience stunned by the professionalism of the children. He adds, “Initially, we did a lot of Disney musicals to packed shows. We have never had a show where the seats have been left unoccupied.”

Like any other theatre production, auditions were conducted and the director says that the talent pool they came across was remarkable. The musical also sends the message of friends and friendships being something you can depend on even during hard times. “We wanted to bring the true meaning of friendship forward. Children are pressured from all directions and if they don’t have good friends, this pressure gets to them. The musical talks about friendship overcoming hardships, and still being friends with the people around.”

— The musical Madagascar — A Musical Adventure will be held on December 7 and 8 at St John’s Auditorium Koramangala.