IIT showcases students’ talent for 6th consecutive year

The Informatics Institute of Technology (IIT) has long upheld the tradition of a balanced education that caters to the wholesome and well rounded application of students’ knowledge, wisdom, talent and creativity.

Stage Craft has been the annual talent show that is a significant part of the Institute’s calendar of events and has been in operation for the past 5 years. This year too Stage Craft occupied pride of place held at the Bishops College Auditorium recently.

Having always been a platform for students to showcase their talents in terms of singing and dancing, this year’s Stage Craft ascended to the next level. Titled ‘No Guts No Glory’, the 2012 Stage Craft was aptly themed as a Wild West Phenomenon with the Committee Members dressed accordingly and the backdrop and other programme aspects influenced by the theme as well. The title of the event was also appropriate as for the first time Stage Craft took place as a competition.

Auditions were held in December and the four professional level judges – Kumudini David, Carlene De Fry, Andre David and Dinali David – had their work cut out for them as the level of talent displayed was unimaginably astounding. Not only were the students inspiring in song and dance but also in their musical instrument capabilities as well as acting. So much so that a re-call was needed until a final 15 items were chosen for the grand finale.

The Committee which comprises students from all four years at IIT was a mix from the student body committee as well as others who volunteered their help. Headed by Chairperson Anushiya Bastiampillai and Co-chairperson Shehara Gamage, Stage Craft 2012 got off to a rambunctious start with a novel and dramatic musical crescendo.

According to Anushiya, “It was heartening to see the level of commitment shown by the students and their enthusiasm for the event even if they were not performing. Whether it was to organise, help backstage, music, lights, sounds, or any other aspect of the organisation, students from all the years helped tremendously.”

“Despite having academic commitments, academic deadlines and other important events, the students still gave their 100 percent for the event. I think that is something important that events like Stage Craft teach us, because as much as it is important to learn and further our academic knowledge, it is also important that we learn to balance our work load and manage time efficiently. This is something that goes on to help us immensely when it comes to our placement year and final projects,” further said Anushiya.

“Another important aspect of Stage Craft is that for many students it is the first opportunity they have to be on stage and perform in front of a large crowd. Stage Craft therefore helps students to build confidence and have no qualms about public speaking and performance.” Said Shehara

As far as the performances took place, the judges at the grand finale – Angela Seneviratne,  Rohan De Lanerolle, and Rozelle Plunkett, in an unanimous decision found Kanishka Gunasekara adjudged the Overall Best Performer for his item ‘Frozen’ which saw over eight instruments being played. ‘Swagger Crew’ won Most Entertaining Performance whilst the ‘Tamilution’ were adjudged the runners up for Best Performance. The Best Performance was awarded to the drama “The Amazing Race” directed by Dino Corera.

As a talent show that is viewed by a vast amount of corporate professionals who are among IIT’s choice for placement students as well as past alumni and other well wishers, the event is an excellent avenue for students to gain recognition for their talents and be rewarded accordingly.