Monday, May 10 2010

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Students exhibit and dance the Maypole....

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“AMBAKAILA!” rings out as the dancers of Bright Ideas Prep School in El Dorado weave their ribbons around the maypole. In a spectacular resurrection of the Maypole Dance, 16 little boys and girls clasped colourful ribbons and danced in perfect rhythm as they circled the maypole during the school’s recent Easter Pageant.

The English Maypole Dance, introduced in Trinidad by Spanish settlers in the 1950s, and known as the Sebucan, is an almost forgotten part of our cultural heritage. Thanks to the combined efforts of the school’s principal, Lianti Singh, and dance instructor, Gregor Breedy, the maypole dance was returned to life.

The tiny tots, all four and five-year-olds, performed intricate dance steps with a grace and confidence that belied their age and eagerly complied when the audience called for an encore. The dance was truly the highlight of the day’s celebrations, but the audience was equally dazzled by the variety of performances which include songs, poetry and an Easter fashion parade ranging from fancy gowns and ornate Easter bonnets to elegantly casual floral prints and beach wear. The most thrilling aspect of the day for the little ones was the arrival of the Easter Bunny with an enormous basket of delicious chocolate eggs for everyone.

The event was very well attended and the audience comprised parents and well-wishers including Zalayhar Hassanali, patron of Bright Ideas Prep School and Merle Albino De Coteau well-known music personality.

One parent spoke for all when she commented: “Education is not just about reading and writing, it is about laying the foundation, broadening the child’s horizons and developing the child to his or her fullest potential, and at Bright Ideas the children are definitely given every opportunity to shine and be the best that they can be.

“The school’s Easter Pageant was indeed a testament to this philosophy. Good luck to Bright Ideas and its shining stars!”