‘Sound of Music’ with a Woodlands twist
The ‘Sound of Music’ goes on stage Malaysian style tonight and the Woodlands International School promises it to be a unique adaptation.
School principal Karen McClymont said the production involved 103 children — all primary school pupils. And took a year for the musical to be choreographed.
With the blending of cultures East and West, she said the audience will be treated to an international musical in a local context.
“In other words, the musical is taking the traditional story with added local flavour through local songs, dancers, and names.
“It will please those who enjoy the traditional ‘Sound of Music’ with a fresh twist.
“(For) Those who love Malaysia, we are also putting it in the environment. It will become a very unique production,” she enthused.
The idea of fusing different elements together was the hard work of two creative production directors, Graham McClymont
In other words, the musical is taking the traditional story with added local flavour through local songs, dancers, and names. Karen McClymont, Woodlands International School principal
and Sabrina Ratnam.
According to her, the two directors rewrote the original script several times, adding local f lavours, and substituting different songs and dancers.
It is an all-inclusive production whereby all pupils were involved, she disclosed, saying it was a way to involve children in language and demonstrating public speaking and confidence in their abilities.
“Because these children come from various backgrounds, and adapt to a new curriculum, this is a step further so that they can demonstrate their skills in a very real way and enjoyable way as well,” she added.
According to the primary coordinator Christina Koh, the decision to produce a musical came about during one of their meetings.
She said as most of the children came from Chinese schools and were lacking confidence to use English in their speaking, the idea was sprung.
“A musical may boost their confidence. So, we decided that everyone should be involved. No one is left behind, even though they cannot speak (so well yet), they can dance and sing,” she explained.
According to Koh, dominating the cast list are Primary Five and Six pupils who are more matured to take on more important roles.
Auditions were then carried out.
She said that it was difficult at fi rst, but through guidance, they managed to shine.
“After almost a year of practice, the confidence is there,” she noted.
She added: “It was a long road for the students from the early audition when they were a little scared and weren’t sure of themselves to the present when they show full confidence and the skills.”
She also mentioned that the musical production would not be possible without the dedication of the directors.
She said part of the process in the production work was watching films and plays that had been done previously, to ensure the students understand the story and the characters.
Expecting a 1,000- strong audience, she said: “It is lovely to see the demands and interest to support this art. It is going to be a big audience for these students, and we know that they will rise to the task and we are looking forward to a wonderful production.”