Lights, Genie, Action!
Arabian Nights Musical Delights Raises Funds for Charity
Sri KDU Kota Damansara’s annual school production, Arabian Nights: The Aladdin Musical Production brought together students, families and the local community for an evening filled with storytelling and purpose. This year’s musical not only celebrated the talent and dedication of 383 students but also served as a charity event, raising funds to benefit local homes in need.
Set against the enchanting backdrops of Agrabah, the musical followed the endearing story of Aladdin, a spirited young man whose courage, wit and kindness win the heart of Princess Jasmine and foil the schemes of the conniving sorceress Jafrrina. With the Genie’s magic lending bursts of humour and sparkle, the cast and crew brought the story to life in vivid detail, weaving together themes of friendship, courage and self-discovery that resonated deeply with audiences of all ages.
Sri KDU Kota Damansara National Primary students dazzled as Genie, played by Rayshen Venkatachalam, leads a magical Arabian Night performance.
The cast and crew, comprising 383 students aged 7 to 12, took on an impressive array of roles, from actors, dancers and choir members to behind-the-scenes roles such as stage crew, props managers and food and beverage team members. The musical also featured the 37-member Sri KDU String Orchestra, the school’s award-winning ensemble, recently honored at an international competition in Hong Kong.
“What makes this production special is how it brings together different aspects of learning: creativity, responsibility and compassion – raising the bar in an all-local musical production of international standards,” shared Puan Shamsiah Anverdeen, Principal of Sri KDU National Primary School. “Each student has fully embraced their role, whether on stage or behind the scenes, and it is their dedication that truly brings the story to life - all while supporting a cause close to the community’s heart. They have indeed made this story their own!”
Gabriel Ang as Aladdin and Nik My Zara Nik Zulkifli as Jasmine captivated audiences in Sri KDU's Arabian Night musical, performing A Whole New World.
As part of the school’s commitment to charitable outreach, Arabian Nights raised RM38,505 through ticket sales. Adding on to the contributions previously raised during the Merdeka Carnival, the schools contributed a total of approximately RM77,000 to support Pusat Jagaan Titian Kaseh and Rumah HOPE, providing essential resources and assistance and underscoring the school’s mission to cultivate a sense of social responsibility among its students, by supporting a meaningful cause.
(Right to left) Veronique Ng, Deputy Head Prefect of Sri KDU National Primary, Puan Shairina Begum, Vice Principal of Sri KDU National Primary, Puan Shamsiah Anverdeen, Principal of Sri KDU National Primary, and Rayyan Saif Varadharajulu, Head Prefect of Sri KDU National Primary presented a cheque to Muhammad Akmal Bin Yusof, Manager of Rumah Titian Kaseh joined by children from the home.
(Right to left) Puan Shairina Begum, Vice Principal of Sri KDU National Primary, Puan Shamsiah Anverdeen, Principal of Sri KDU National Primary along with Veronique Ng, Deputy Head Prefect of Sri KDU National Primary and Rayyan Saif Varadharajulu, Head Prefect of Sri KDU National Primary presented a donation to Edwin Roch, Principal of Rumah HOPE (left), as part of the school's ongoing charitable initiatives.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support from the community, parents and staff who have made this event a success. The student’s joy and excitement were visible in every performance and to channel this energy into a charitable cause truly amplifies the value of this experience for everyone involved,” added Shamsiah.
The musical featured two shows, showcasing the students’ incredible skills and reinforcing the school’s commitment to giving back. The students’ hard work was evident, as they spent months rehearsing their lines, songs and dances.
Rayshen Venkatachalam, who played the Genie, shared how the experience had positively impacted him. “Performing on stage has been such an amazing experience for me. I have gained more self-confidence, while it also helped me overcome my stage fright. I never thought I could sing because I see myself as just merely a dancer, but I am glad I discovered a new skill! Balancing daily rehearsals with schoolwork and other responsibilities was challenging, but it taught me how to stay discipline and improve my time management.”
His mother, Madam Lavania Kumaraendran, expressed her appreciation for the teachers’ dedication and commitment. “The teachers have been amazing, always guiding the students to improve and work together as a team. They definitely go the extra mile to create an environment where the kids can grow, explore their creativity and perform to the best of their abilities.”
For information about Sri KDU Kota Damansara’s community initiatives or upcoming events, please visit https://www.facebook.com/SriKDUSchools/.
