Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu:

Malpi International School’s staging of ‘Sound of Music’ was warmly received last year and the school continues its efforts with ‘Siddhartha - Birth of a Dream,’ to be presented at Royal Nepal Academy Hall on July 5 and 6. This musical focuses on the mortal life of the Buddha as Prince Siddhartha Gautam. Most of the play takes place in a palace and asks how and why Siddhartha left his opulent upbringing to search for truth and enlightenment. He faces temptation in the form of the archer who attempts to deter the prince from his chosen course. The archer’s attempts fail and the latter is able to follow his spiritual path. Throughout

the play, the Moon represents enlightenment and the pond symbolises Siddhartha’s mind. Through the portrayal of the human face of Buddha, the play serves as a lesson to us in our modern times. The lyrical and contemporary music combines eastern traditions with western influences to highlight the universal message behind Buddha’s teachings. ‘Siddhartha — Birth of a Dream’ is directed by Mr Richard Moktan. Proceeds will go to support the underprivileged in Malpi village through the school’s “Malpi Community Outreach” programmes.