ASOKA THEATRE REUNION
(LORRAINE SINGH)
The Asoka Theatre Reunion took place on Saturday, 22 March 2014 at the COMSA Lounge on the Westville campus and was attended by 50 people who had a fabulous evening.
There was a ten minute slide show on the history of the Department of Drama at UDW which Robin Singh presented ( this because he had been a staff member for 39 years and the last HOD). There was also another slide show (In Memoriam) of departmental students and staff who have passed on which is available at http://youtu.be/eAycwP_Gq4A. It was extremely moving for those who remembered many of those young students. Many others commented on the political situation on campus. Staff members recalled their horror when badly beaten students arrived seeking refuge from rampaging riot police. The 80s were tumultuous times and the Department of Drama was a rallying point for many.
The Reunion was also attended by previous Heads – Prof Devi Bughwan (now in her 80s and still looking good) and Prof Dennis Schauffer. Dr Betty Govinden represented her late husband Prof Herby Govinden who composed the music for some the plays. Jazz pianist Melvin Peters who played in the Department at age 14 was delighted to relive those memories and play again.
The entertainment for the evening was provided by Satchu Annamalai and members of the theatre group called the “Dingalings” all former students. Prof Suria Govender conducted an interactive Indian dance class with the attendees - many of whom had not been in a class in decades.
It was great the way in which people re-connected so easily and got into the spirit of things. Some outrageous “ Not- the -Asoka Awards” were given out and every one accepted being roasted in good spirit. Lots of secrets emerged much to Prof Bughwan’s surprise – she had no idea of the shenanigans that were going on.