A narrative that explores themes of love, prejudice, and the power of storytelling, all set against a backdrop of vibrant island culture and music and features a variety of songs that blend Caribbean rhythms with Broadway-style tunes were part of the University of Fiji students acting and dancing performance.
The UniFiji students from the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Sciences showcased their moves with the premiere of the "Once on This Island JR." musical, recently at the Saweni Campus, before more than 100 staff, students, and family members.
The play which was directed by MBBS Lecturer, Dr Ricardo Corpuz, took more than 6 months of preparations and was an effort of the UniFiji Thespian Club.
Dr. Ricardo says "Once on This Island JR." is a musical play adapted from the original full-length version "Once on This Island," which was written by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. The "JR." version is a shorter, youth-friendly adaptation.
He says the story is set in the Caribbean and follows a peasant girl named Ti Moune, who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island.
UniFiji Thespian Club President and Head of the Department of Language and Literature, Dr Kamala Naiker says they are excited that the first show has been a huge success.
Dr Kamala says taking part in musical plays provides students with a creative outlet for self-expression and emotional release, which is crucial for their overall well-being.
She says participating in musical plays help to foster important skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Dr Naiker added that they are planning for more plays, and engaging students from other schools of the University as well.
