AL AIN JUNIORS SCHOOL FESTIVAL WITH A DIFFERENCE

Strange as it may sound, this is what Al Ain Juniors School decided to do so-
a School Festival (not an annual day!) spreading out into three days, to create opportunities for most of our students, thus to accommodate all the parents and guests who came to witness the show.

But what's the difference? It was not a festival merely displaying the talents of students, their prowess in acting, dancing and the like, but something of a greater realm - it was a school festival with a cause. The proceeds of this festival will go towards 'Hope Centre' - a centre for children with special needs' in Al Ain which is an extension of Al Ain Juniors School.

The three-day programme constituted of drama and dance giving opportunities to all sections of students -the Nursery, Kindergarten, Middle School and Senior School.Nevertheless, the programme began with the cat walk session by the special children from 'Hope Centre' They enthralled the crowd who received the prospective models with thunderous applause. To bring them on to stage which was an excellent idea by itself, although more challenging for both the children and the faculty of Hope Centre. Their task was successful and commendable.

The nursery and kindergarten presented a variety entertainment programme consisting of the all-time favorite Barbie dance, a fashion show, brides and grooms from the different parts of the world and of course, they did take us into their world of fantasy, the 'Fantasia'. 'Ecstasy' would be the only term probably to describe what parents and we teachers felt about this programme. It was an apt manifestation of a child's fantasy world.

The middle school section presented a variety of dances but the play "Courage Conquers All" was the icing of the cake. The play based on J.R.R Tolkein's 'The Hobbit' brought to light that every man does have a part to play in conquering and overcoming any challenging situation however small, insufficient or incapable one may seem to be. This play must receive a special mention for the quality of acting, which was truly in par with theatrical standards. Any director would have whisked away a few of them. The excellent dialogue delivery was visible by the expression and flawless, crystal clear voice of the children, which showed their complete involvement in the play.

The senior school presented " Aladdin" bringing out the fact that good will always rule over evil. The different dances and songs did truly add color to the festivity and celebration of victory, triumph and success that Al Ain Juniors School has experienced over the past thirteen years. For most of the actors it was a debut performance, which was so well camouflaged by the confidence with which they performed. The involvement in their respective roles was quite evident to all who sat through the play.

The Principal Mrs. Tanveer Arshad addressed the audience on all the three days highlighting the need to make a difference in today's uncaring, self-centered world. The Vice Principal and Headmistress of the school presented the annual report of the school's activity and achievement filled year.

Thus came the end of another eventful occasion in the history of Al Ain Juniors School. Eventful more so , because we have educated the world that, we can make a difference in bringing hope and sunshine to those who need it
the most.