Friday, 29th 2024 was colored in a poignant display of talent and splashy fashion. Students from Taibah International School took to the stage to narrate Sarafina, the South African gripping tale of oppression and resistance. This was accurately depicted through a series of songs, dances, and theatrical performances.
What time did the play start?
Keeping to their promise, the event commenced promptly at 11:00 am. Children were adorned in the vibrant colors of orange, white, and green, echoing the spirit of their narrative.
The proceedings opened with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by all the children and a band. The Taibah International School anthem followed suit. Before you knew it, the parents had already filled the mega tent to watch their little angels. This event was designed and filmed by Swangz Avenue. One of the outstanding moments was when a clip from music star, Azawi was played as she wished everyone a happy Good Friday.
What was the first song performed at Taibah International School on Good Friday?
The first song, “Africa,” captivated the audience, followed by the first episode of a modernized version of “Sarafina”. Spectators were treated to the heart of the struggle against apartheid.
The story performed by the older children unfolded in fragments interspersed with musical performances by little kids. The audience was taken on a journey from home to school, through moments of prayer, defiance, and introspection.
How were the Taibah students dressed?
Dressed in traditional Kitenge attire, another group delivered a soulful rendition of ABBA’s “I Have a Dream.” Perhaps this song was screaming the themes of hope and aspiration amid adversity.
Throughout the event, the stage came alive with vibrant dances, including a spirited rendition of “Nomakanjani?”. There was no way for you to doze off with such an exquisite show.
How the show was performed
As the Sarafina storyline progressed, themes of identity, love, and sacrifice emerged. Episodes depicted moments of confrontation and courage, as characters grappled with the decision to resist or succumb to oppression.
The Good Friday Sarafina performance was organized according to one of the teachers to promote the notion of African Pride. During the days when Sarafina was depicted, Nelson Mandela, a staunch opposer of Apartheid was imprisoned. The story goes on to show that so many lives were lost when people resisted segregation of black people in South Africa. However, Sarafina was a representative of the girl who rose up evn as a mere student and led to a massive revolution that would land Africans their freedom. In the real life story, Mandela eventually became the President of South Africa.
Why do international schools promote such themes as Sarafina?
It’s quite intriguing to see international schools training children in such projects. Perhaps they are helping African children to believe in themselves as opposed to the popular notion that suggests that international schools are for rich foreigners. One would say this is a signal that the idea is to promote equal education to all races.
