Crawford International North Coast Preparatory’s production of Annie Jr. was not just an opportunity for the young learners to learn about the hard-knock life, but also as a way for them to learn from each other through cultural and skill exchange.

The school’s production turned out to have some important eyes in the audience as it was attended by not only parents but also a few officials from the Indian Consulate in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal provincial leadership.

The school’s drama teacher, Sindi Mavimbela, explained that the junior adaptation of Annie was based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway classic and sought to showcase that through optimism and determination, Annie transforms the lives of those around her, “proving that family is not just about where you come from, but about the love you share”.

Director and Head of the Cultural Wing of the Indian Consulate in Durban, Dr Anasuya Boligarla, said that it was a pleasure and privilege for her to join school events.

“It is something very different, and you’ll go home with a refreshed mind whenever you go to school events. On behalf of the Indian Consulate, our heartiest congratulations on a very successful production of Annie. I must mention the dynamic team of Crawford International North Coast Preparatory.

“This is an expression of culture and inclusivity also, and I must tell you that we all should give a big round of applause to the school team, which is led by Mr Justin Paynter.”

While commending the efforts of the students and the teachers of the school, Boligarla also gave credit to “the relentless efforts and support of the parents” at the same time.

She said that culture is the soul of a community, and that it remains important in light of how the world is being globalised.

“It’s very important that cultural exchange and knowing each other’s culture has become mandatory now, because we are not living in confined societies.

“I would say that our culture connects us to the traditions which are thousands of years old, (whether) it is from India or from South Africa. Our culture tells us who we are and where we have come from, and to some extent, how other people perceive you also depends on which culture they’ve been (exposed) to.

“It plays a very, very important role, and it is a moral responsibility for all parents or grandparents to tell their children, or explain to them, what exactly their cultural identity is.

“Our cultures, as I’ve told you, it connects us. For example, in the spirit of India, we call it Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, in the spirit of South Africa, we call it is Ubuntu. The former is one is, the world is one family, and the other one Ubuntu, (means) ‘I am is we are’.

“Both of the things have the same concept that unites us, so we also see the things which are similar to both countries and also see the things which differentiate,” Boligarla said.

Director for Art Development and Acting Chief Director for Cultural Affairs, Phumelele Mngomezulu, in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, said that she was excited to be in attendance for the school’s theatre production.

“As the department of Sport, Arts and Culture, we’re developing a strategy that looks at talent identification, development progression, and monetisation, so when we watch these shows, we’re looking for talent. We’re looking at how we’re developing the talent, and how we are linking it with other platforms in the province, other provinces in the country, and internationally.

Mngomezulu said that she was not just in attendance to watch the school’s production, but also working as she was scouting for talent. She said that she would be working closely with the school to see how it connects with other schools in the provinces, “just to make sure there is that cross learning and information dissemination” so they can grow together in the spirit of social cohesion.

“The good thing about theatre, and drama, is that it embraces everyone. If you can’t sing, then perhaps you can dance; if you can’t dance, then perhaps you can be a scriptwriter; if you can’t write, then you could actually work on the wardrobe. There is a role for everyone.”

President of India South African Chamber of Commerce, Rahul Kaushik, said that it was delightful to see the school’s rich multiculturalism shine through.

“The students’ enthusiasm and talent were palpable, and it was wonderful to witness the diversity of our school community celebrated on stage. The show was a beautiful reflection of our heritage and the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes our school so unique. Kudos to everyone involved for putting together such an amazing performance.

“The production of Annie Jr. brought everyone together, showcasing the beauty of our differences and celebrating our shared humanity. By working together, the students learned to appreciate and respect each other’s backgrounds, traditions, and perspectives. It’s wonderful to see our school fostering an environment where diversity is seen as a strength, and everyone feels valued and included.”

Crawford International North Coast Principal, Justin Paynter, thanked all the parents and staff for their involvement, and said that the children will more likely remember their involvement in the school’s first play, instead of a maths test.

“This bunch of boys and girls have created memories that will last them a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more proud.”

theolin.tembo@inl.co.za

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