The drama team, who has been practising daily, on weekends and after school, was invited to perform their play …. at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. The play, written by our own isiXhosa and Arts&Culture teacher, Sibongiseni Myana, is a moving tale of a young girl’s spiritual journey. It is also a challenge to Africa to return to the spirit of ubuntu. As I write this, the group of five learners and three educators have settled into accommodation in Grahamstown and have spent the day marketing their play in the town centre, in preparation for their week of performances.
Most touching is the effect this venture has had on the learners involved. Lindsay Henley, director of BethU’riel, home to one of the young men, Xolani, said she has never seen him so enthusiastic and committed to school since his involvement in the play. Shy and reserved Grace and soft-spoken Thandeka both shine in their respective roles as desperate mother and God-seeking daughter.
The real heroes of the story are the hard working educators, generous donors and selfless hosts who have made the tour to Grahamstown possible. Special mention must be made of the Pick and Pay at Waterstone Village in Somerset West who supported the team and the His People church in Grahamstown who found us accommodation and whose gracious hospitality has been a great blessing to us.
While quaint Grahamstown is a sought-after location during July, New York must be one of the most desirable destinations in the world all year round. Unbelievably, five Grade 12 students will be flying to the Big Apple on the 11th July as part of their mentorship programme with Active Compassion Transforms, for an unforgettable thirteen days of inspiration. We will tell you all about that next month!
