AIS brings to life pop culture and glitz of the 80’s with “Fame Jr.”

The Asian International School (AIS) will present “Fame Jr.” a global phenomenon, and inspired by the hit motion picture “Fame”, which brings to life the glitz and pop culture of the 1980s. The production is the school’s latest production since the jukebox musical ‘Rock of Ages’ in 2019.

‘Fame’ the musical, developed by David De Silva, chronicles the highs and lows of the illustrious High School for the Performing Arts’ final class from their first year in 1980 until their graduation in 1984. It follows the exploits of a few of the students, depicting their adversities, victories, and turbulent relationships with sincerity and dramatic effect.

‘Fame JR.’ is directed by Anushka Senanayake with music direction by Natasha Senanayake and choreography and movement direction by Umeshi Rajeendra.

With a cast of just under 60 members ranging from 11 to 18 years old, Anushka promises audiences high energy performances, catchy music and a mix of the classic 80’s aesthetics from the original with modern nuances to compliment them.

“This particular story really brings to life the power of the performing arts,” says Director Anushka Senanayake about the upcoming production. She adds, “it speaks to what music, dance and acting does for our lives and not just on a stage but in a larger context – making room in your life for the arts and taking the time to engage with the arts can only enrich your life.”

Aanya Holsinger plays cutthroat English teacher and head mistress, Miss Sherman. Despite her character’s tough exterior, Aanya was keen to stress that Miss Sherman’s actions are fueled by a true understanding of the difficulties of pursuing a career in the arts. Aanya says, “she knows the kids want to be famous but she often advices them to have a plan B it’s a lot like the Sri Lankan mindsetthis is the kind of thing a lot of people get told when they say, ‘I want to have a career in the arts’”.

Tashiyana Devarajan plays Carmen Diaz, a determined young dancer who’s keen to make it big and is enamored with the idea of fame, nearly to a fault. She says, “I think everyone can relate to this play because all of these characters go through obstacles of their own that I think many individuals out there go through as well and each of the characters somewhat overcome it and find ways to find solutions – some of them may not make it but then again that’s the reality of life – this show really connects with reality.”

For Shria Nair, she says she found ample common ground with her character, Serena Katz, a keen and enthusiastic budding actress. Yet she says that the role came with the challenge of portraying some of Serena’s key characteristics which contrasts her own, particularly Serena’s girly yet reserved nature. “It was challenging but also fun at the same time because the beauty of acting is stepping into another character’s shoes.”

David Maurice who plays Schlomo described his role as an ideal one. Drawing from his own experience as a musician and songwriter, David says he was able to connect with the character of Schlomo, a dedicated young musician, with a deep understanding.

For many of the older castmates, including David and Aanya, the production is a bittersweet experience for them as they near their own graduation from AIS. David jokes, “this is the first time I think I’ve been in a production where we’re anticipating post production depression”. “it’s our last year”, adds Aanya. “This musical is special to us because it’s our last year and the play itself looks back at the four years the characters spend in high school, ending with their graduation”.

The production has been in the works since the middle of last year. Anushka shared that she noticed an overwhelming sense of enthusiasm in the rehearsal room, indicating how ready the students were to return to the stage and after a lengthy interval away from the stage following the spread of the COVID-19 virus and prevailing economic crisis.

She says, “a lot of credit is due to AIS for making the production possible – with the current situation in the country it’s not an easy feat to put on such a large-scale musical and involve so many young performers”.

‘Fame JR.’ will get underway at the Lionel Wendt Theater on February 10 and 11 at 7.30PM. Tickets will be available for purchase at the AIS school office.