COLOMBO: Mar 27, 11.30PM – In a dazzling display of talent and creativity, the Asian International School’s biennial Inter-house Drama Competition recently concluded, leaving the Lionel Wendt stage alive with the magic of devised theater. Among the glittering stars, Garnet House shone the brightest, emerging as champions with an array of individual awards.
The competition took a unique turn this year as students delved into the world of devised theater, creating four original plays inspired by the theme of “tolerance.” The stage was set aglow after months of rehearsals and preparation, turning the Lionel Wendt into a playground of imagination.
Garnet House’s victory was nothing short of spectacular, with Anuk Wijeratne winning Best Supporting Actor for a Male role, Dilhaan Wickremasinghe claiming Best Actor for a Male role, and Kenolee Ranatunga securing Best Actor for a Female Role. Their triumphant cast displayed unparalleled talent, taking the audience on an enchanting journey through the world of tolerance.
The evening kicked off with Sapphire House, presenting “Divine Affair,” a mythical narrative exploring tolerance. Amethyst House followed suit with the dark and twisted “Ripped at the Seams,” directed by Vehara Abeygunawardena, delving into the complexities of tolerance within a blended family. Sapphire House directors are Radhika Ranaweera and Stefan Shabbir.
Topaz House injected humor into the competition with “Wedding Woes and Family Foes.” Directed by Sulakshana Dias Amaratunga and Tharusha Kumarasinghe, the play navigated the delicate balance between new marriages and old traditions. Finally, Garnet House captivated the audience with “I Scream Dream,” a production directed by Theruni Indrapala and AIS alumni Aanya Holsingher, exploring tolerance through the lens of young friends navigating dreams, parental expectations, and a country in flux.
Devised theater, a collaborative form that encourages teamwork from script to stage, took the students on a challenging yet rewarding journey. Workshops with practitioners such as Ruwanthi de Chickera and Viranthi Cooray supported the students in their exploration of devised theater and script writing, marking a first-time experience for many.
Founded in 1999 by the late Mr. W.P Perera and Mrs. Manel Perera, the Asian International School has been a beacon of holistic education, blending fundamental Eastern values with Western liberal thinking. The school’s commitment to the performing arts has been evident throughout its history, fostering soft skills, organizational abilities, creativity, and self-confidence among students.
As the curtains closed on this year’s Inter-house Drama Competition, the Asian International School once again demonstrated the power of creativity, teamwork, and tolerance, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of its students and the wider community. The stage may be empty for now, but the memories of this magical night will linger on, inspiring future generations of budding performers.
