THE National Cultural Centre was a hub of activity last Wednesday when hundreds of patrons flocked to see the National Library’s play, ‘To Sir with Love – A Guyanese Version’, based on the classic novel written by renowned Guyanese author, E. R. Braithwaite. Braithwaite’s novel was the inspiration behind the 1967 British drama film, To Sir with Love, starring Sidney Poitier.
Chief Librarian, Gillian Thompson, said the public response was overwhelming and the Library was particularly honoured to have the presence of the author himself at the event.
“We would like to thank Mr. Braithwaite for attending the play. We salute him for his outstanding work and for writing the novel that provided the material for us to create a Guyanese version of this wonderful story. The writer, director and the entire cast of the play did an exemplary job,” Thompson said.
The Chief Librarian would also like to thank the sponsors, Banks DIH, D M Enterprise Inc., Bounty Supermarket, Carib Food Distributors, Courts (Guyana) Inc., Didco Trading Company, F & H Supreme and Strikers Sports Club, Guyana Police Consumers Co-op Society, Mattai’s Supermarket, Nigel’s supermarket, Noble House Seafood, R. Bassoo and Sons, T&J Bookstore and General Merchandise, Universal Bookstore, Yam’s Liquor Store, Hazel Chance, and the public for their overwhelming support.
The novel is based on true events concerning Braithwaite’s taking up a teaching post at an East London school, and the challenges that unfolded with his students.
The Guyanese version of the play was written by Mosa Telford and directed by Ron Robinson.
The play depicted a teacher who decided to return to Guyana from England to teach what turned out to be a group of unruly students. The challenges that were experienced mirror those faced today in Guyanese schools and provided an in-depth view of a teacher striving to overcome those obstacles.
Thompson said the National Library is aiming to showcase Guyanese talent and promote local authors through initiatives like the play.
“We are always striving to promote our local authors, and we try to do so in a manner that would inspire our young people to aim for the stars and realise their dreams. The National Library, through all of its initiatives, will continue to forge ahead with promoting literacy and instilling values and morals in our society,” the Chief Librarian said.
Braithwaite, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, received a moving tribute from Sidney Poitier moments before the play began. Poitier, in a recorded statement, said that he was honoured to depict the character created by Braithwaite in his novel, and wished the author many more birthdays to come.
The National Library presented the centenarian with a portrait of himself done by artist, Rondell Bess, and a plaque was given by the production team and cast in honour of his many achievements and his sterling contributions to Guyana.
Braithwaite was also conferred with Guyana’s third highest National Award, the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH), by President Donald Ramotar on Thursday August 23.