Thrissur School Prepares for Tenth Kalolsavam Drama Appearance
As evening falls on Thrissur, the festival city buzzes with excitement for theatre performances in the higher secondary category. One school stands out with a remarkable achievement. On Saturday, Govt Higher Secondary School Kokkallur will make its tenth appearance in the higher secondary drama competition at the State School Kalolsavam.
Years of Discipline and Collective Effort
This milestone results from years of disciplined work and collective effort. The school maintains a deep commitment to socially engaged theatre. For the past three months, classrooms, verandahs, and nearby homes in Kokkallur village transformed into active rehearsal spaces.
Students, teachers, alumni, and local residents dedicated long evenings to perfecting movement, dialogue, and music. They prepared thoroughly for a stage the school knows well but never takes for granted. Their return represents more than just competition. It sustains a cultural tradition nurtured across generations.
Distinct Identity Through Theatre
Over the years, GHSS Kokkallur developed a distinct identity at Kalolsavams. Supported by the alumni-driven Mavericks Theatre Collective, the school earned recognition for thematic seriousness. Their productions feature disciplined ensemble work and inventive staging that challenges audiences.
This year, the school presents Kurish (The Cross). The play explores the crucifix beyond religious connotations. It examines the cross as a universal symbol of truth, compassion, endurance, and moral courage.
Exploring Universal Themes
Through its narrative, Kurish questions hypocrisy and forces that suppress justice. The play asserts values of love, coexistence, and human dignity that transcend faiths and identities. It ultimately affirms that truth and goodness inevitably rise again, despite burdens.
Muhammed C, an English teacher at the school, explained that Kurish is a free stage adaptation of Vinoy Thomas's short story Vishudha Magdalana Mariyathinte Palli. Vineesh Palayad wrote the script, and Manoj Narayanan directs the production.
Community Support and Funding
Funding and logistics followed the pattern of previous years. Collective contributions from teachers, parents, alumni, and villagers made everything possible. Many community members view Kalolsavams as a shared responsibility.
Student Commitment and Legacy
Student actor Gautham Adithyan plays Samson in the production. He said his decision to join the school was driven by its theatre legacy. "Rehearsals often stretch late into the night, and sometimes we sleep at the school itself. It's demanding but it feels like home," Adithyan shared.
Adithyan secured the best actor award at the sub-district level. He represents many students who chose admission to the school specifically for its Kalolsavam reputation.
Past Success and Future Expectations
Earlier productions earned widespread acclaim and numerous awards. Notable works include:
- Kunjuchettante Kunju
- Puli Paranja Kadha
- Otta
- Kakkukali
- Singapore
- Kalasamithi
- Kumaru
- Ettam
Several of these productions secured A grades and individual honors. As curtains rise again in Thrissur, audiences watch closely. They wonder whether Kokkallur can live up to the weight and pride of its tenth Kalolsavam return.
