A scene from the play
A classical display of talent and sheer brilliance characterized this year’s musical adaptation of “Sarafina” at the National Theatre by Ghana International School. Unlike previous productions, this year’s performance featured students of the La Wireless Cluster of Schools who performed to a large cheery audience.
The Principal of GIS, Dr Mary Ashun could not hold back her excitement; “I am proud of the students. The African musical touch made it more amazing and bringing the La Wireless Public School on board was important. Their combined effort was a typical example of private public partnership.” She added that “GIS has always reached out to its community, hence the school bringing on board a public school.”
Dr. Ashun advised parents and teachers to encourage students with talent to hone these skills by engaging in such co- curricular activities.
A member of the Council of State and a former President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA), Honourable Mrs. Gifty Afenyi Dadzie lauded the sterling performance of the students; “ It was a fantastic show, having the blend of GIS and La Wireless on stage signified unity and love. It brought to the fore the vibrant nature of Pan Africanism. We have to educate the youth about African values.”
In a post-performance interview, Jennifer Caesar, who played Sarafina on the second night, attributed her brilliance to several weeks of hard work, dedication and team work from her mates, the entire teaching staff and crew.
“Sarafina” ,a play written by South African playwright Dr. Mbongeni Ngema recounts the story of students involved in the Soweto Riots and their opposition to the implementation of Afrikaans as the language of instruction in schools.
The musical which is the 9th in the series was accompanied by a live band whose music brought the elated audience to its feet. It was directed by Mr. Asabil, Mr. Dzakamani, Mrs. Vanderpuye and Miss Larbi, all teaching staff in the Secondary School.
After Sixty years of application and hard work Ghana International School is the first and only International school in Ghana to be accredited by both the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS).
