-Prime Minister tells hundreds who turned out to view fairy tale in comedy at NCC
PRIME Minister Samuel Hinds, on Saturday evening, joined hundreds of Guyanese at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) for the fairy-tale in comedy, ‘The Cinderella Story’, directed by Mahadeo Shivraj.
Prime Minister Hinds said he was overwhelmed with the transformation of the NCC forecourt.
“I have come to NCC on a number of occasions, but I think tonight was so much different (and) to see so many boys and girls…all dressed-up and accompanied by their parents,” he said.
He urged the gathering to use the Cinderella story as motivation to work together for a harmonious Guyana. “…despite the real world out there…that is full of sadness and violence, if we commit ourselves to work for love, peace and happiness then we can have the Guyana we want,”  asserted the Prime Minister.
The play is being staged by the Dramatic Arts Academy in collaboration with Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T).
Mr. Hinds expressed optimism that other corporate companies would follow in the footsteps of GT&T – the country’s telecommunications giant.
“This Government has always said that we want competition…we like competition; we want many more GT&Ts in Guyana, not only the telecommunication sector but in all the sectors,” the Prime Minister said.
He also used the occasion to praise GT&T for its efforts to promote Guyanese culture.
Chief Executive Officer of GT&T Mr. Yog Mahadeo said he was extremely excited to present the ‘Cinderella Story’ for all to enjoy.
He noted that, as the company continues to provide a more improved and modernized communications technology services in Guyana, he strongly believes that the event – held at the NCC over the weekend – could not have been possible without the support from customers.
In this regard, he said GT&T has over the years embraced the aspect of local culture and talents, and will continue since he sees this as a critical element in the development of healthy minds.
Head of Dramatic Arts Academy Mr. Neaz Subhan said the academy is pleased to be part of the production and expressed optimism that such a show will help to introduce a different taste in the field of local drama.
Subhan expressed hope that the significance of drama will help to reintroduce simplicity and humbleness into society.
“The Cinderella story presents an opportunity to give us positive outcomes, which can be derived from similar situations,” Subhan noted.
Like the Prime Minister, Subhan also expressed optimism that other companies would see this event as immediate push to get on board in supporting local productions that are inspiring and family oriented.
In this regard, he noted that Saturday night’s event was testimony of the investment that was made by the administration in 2008 to train local persons in performing arts.
“The many actors and actresses that were trained in 2008, for CARIFESTA X is a catalyst to the revival of the local theatrical field,” Subhan said.   (GINA)