A heartwarming concoction of allegorical resonance and hope 

The students of CIS are all set to wow audiences with their latest production - Skellig - based on the award winning debut novel of the same name by British author David Almond, this Friday. 

With renowned thespian and Head of Performing Arts at CIS Vinodh Senadheera at the helm, the students of Grades 7-10 take on this well loved book that deals with a hodge podge of myth, hope and family dynamics. Director Vinodh has nothing but praise for his talented young cast, as he promises the audience a thought-provoking experience. 

The Daily Mirror Life caught up with the enthusiastic young cast of Skellig who shared their thoughts and experiences of being a part of this magical production Here's what they had to say: 

Rishane, 14 (Michael) 

I've had the time of my life taking part in Skellig along with such a dedicated, talented cast. If I were to describe the play in one word I'd say it's unorthodox. It's not your typical, run-of-the-mill school play. It's exploring a lot of different, unique themes that apply to all of us in daily life. 

Deyhan, 14 (Michael's dad) 

Productions are always fun and allow you to grow as a performer as you are pushed to try new things. Also, Skellig has been a school literary piece and we have all read the book and have a profound and clear idea of our characters which is definitely a plus! All in all, Skellig has been an amazing experience and I am definitely proud to be a part of it! The audience will learn the ties of science and myth. It shows the power of hope and how love endures. The audience will feel the bond of family and friendship and how the most unexpected things can happen in life. 

Kenula, 15 (Skellig) 

This is the last intermediate play I'm taking part in and my main motive was to enjoy myself and perform to the best of my ability. Working with the cast as always has been truly inspirational and I continue to develop myself as an actor and improve my abilities in all aspects of acting. Playing skellig has been without a doubt the most challenging experience and that's because it's not a human character that I play. The character development is immense and I'm sure everyone will enjoy this performance. The audience should expect a production full of hope, inspiration and dealing with real life situations. I'm confident that the audience will be surprised by what lies beneath the old chest of drawers... 

Mahima, 15 (Mina) 

In my opinion I think the play is very mysterious and magical. It's a play which some will think as odd. However, it's also a play with lots of meaning and moreover, trying to capture the character of mina who is clearly very unique and adventurous proved to be difficult at several points. But one thing that I found rather surprising is how I saw parts of her character in myself. I think the play has changed me so much that the idea of finding a man in my garage seems amusing and normal now to me. The play and it's elements of hope and magic have restored my belief in things like miracles and even made me understand how powerful hope is to people and how important it is in our short lifetime. 

Manilka, 14 (Chorus leader) 

Being a part of the Skellig cast has been special as it is my last intermediate play and it has been an absolutely delightful experience for me. It has been extremely interesting to work with the rest of the chorus - especially the new actors - who are just  beginning to venture into the wonders of being a part of an intermediate play as brilliant as Skellig. All I can say is that this is one of the best plays I have been a part of. 

Raheel, 15 (Chorus leader) 

Being a part of the Skellig cast has been an amazing experience. Especially working with immensely talented people. I've found the play thrilling and exciting and I think the audience should expect a play of magic and mystery where myth meets science and a play which is very unique but unusual in a good way. 

Catch Skellig at the CIS Auditorium on the 12th of February at 7.30pm. Tickets priced Rs. 500 and Rs. 600 will be available at the school Auditorium. 

By Rihaab Mowlana