The British School stages ‘Fame – The Musical’

Saturday, 16 March 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The British School (BSC) continues its drive to create a strong tradition in performing arts with its latest production, ‘Fame – The Musical’. Following on the heels of last year’s 1960s adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, this musical features young actors who made their stage debuts in minor roles for BSC’s highly successful production of ‘Grease’ in 2010.

‘Fame’ is set in a high school for the performing arts, and the amusing script highlights the theme of how much hard work is required to become a successful performing artiste. BSC’s young teenage cast have been following a rigorous schedule of acting, singing and dancing in preparation for the show, while also maintaining consistency in academics.

16-year-old Sithari Perera who plays a lead role as Grace ‘lambchops’ Lamb, is just one such example. A powerful swimmer just selected to the SAARC team pool, Sithari finds time to train every day, attend Fame rehearsals and maintain her A-grade average. The production has also lead many cast members to discover skills they never knew they had, such as basketballer Dinuk (15) who learned he is a talented singer or sprinter Canishka (17) who is proving a sensitive actor.

These young performers take to the stage with over 50 other students, from 21 to 23 March at the British School Auditorium. ‘Fame’ is staged by special arrangement with Music Theatre International, USA, and tickets are now available at the BSC reception. Tracy Holsinger directs ‘Fame’, with choreography by Sureka Buell and musical direction from Shamistha de Silva.