Enduring 2600 years as one of the world’s most widely-read classics, Ramayana! tells the story of Prince Ram, who, banished from his kingdom, leaves with his true love Sita and brother Lakshman to find a new home. The trio embarks upon an uncertain journey into the Dandaka Forest and beyond, encountering an array of magical characters, including: tribal folk and gentle forest animals, giants and wizards, heroic monkeys and bears, an enchanted golden deer, a kingdom of demons led by the evil 10-headed Lord Ravana, and a wild, fire-breathing dragon!?
The performances on June 6-8 mark Mount Madonna School’s (MMS) 36th annual production, making it the longest running production of this timeless Indian epic in the western hemisphere!
Five years ago MMS brought Ramayana! to San Jose’s Mexican Heritage Theater, an ambitious endeavor that has facilitated the introduction of new audiences to this unique theatrical production. The show features a cast of some 200 student actors, ages 3 to 18, accompanied by a choir and adult musicians. It is a story of love, adventure, separation and an eventual joyous reunion, in an ancient allegory of the battle of good and evil. The show is filled with exciting action, spectacular costuming, family humor and original, live music.
As the story unfolds, relevant, profound and subtle themes emerge – not only the power of goodness and the determination of love – but also the need for compassion for all beings. A rich performing arts tradition and integrated arts curriculum make MMS performances outstanding. Put aside any stereotypes of what “school play” might bring to mind; think professional quality, phenomenal, authentic costumes, staging, musical talent and dramatic accomplishment.
This young cast works hard, and it shows! Bringing Ramayana! to life each year is a labor of love for the crew as well, with hundreds of faculty, staff, parents and volunteers contributing in myriad ways. This is testament to the strong volunteer spirit and community-building efforts espoused by the small Central Coast school known for strong academics, performing arts and producing volleyball championships.
Performances at the Mexican Heritage Theater, 1700 Alum Rock Ave., San Jose, June 6 and 7, 7:00pm; June 8, 2:00pm.
India Post News Service
