By Gasper Crasto
Photo Album by: Orson D'Souza - alorson@yahoo.co.in
Kuwait: The much awaited musical play THE CENTURION depicting the life of St. Paul was one of the fitting ways of paying tribute to the powerful saint who changed the lives of many with his teachings that had many religious scholars bewildered.
The play was held on 15~16th May 2009 at IEAS (Don Bosco), Salmiya, and 22~23rd May 2009 at the Holy Family Cathedral, Kuwait City. It was staged as part of the Jubilee celebration of the 2000th birth anniversary of the saint declared by the Pope, his Holiness Benedict XVI from June 2008 ~2009 as the Year of St. Paul.
Based on the life and teachings of St. Paul, the script of the musical was written by Peter Tassi and John Cope, Canada. The actors of THE CENTURION, at the end of the musical, left an indelible impression in the hearts and minds of the audience. The joy on the faces of all those who witnessed the act was evident from the resounding applause that vibrated around the venue where the act was performed.
“One is faith, one is hope and the greatest gift of all is love.”
These are the words of St. Paul, who harkened to the calling of God, through a life changing event and thus experiencing His unfathomable love, which would yield and bring forth God’s message of joy and comfort to all people.
THE CENTURION was ably coordinated by Fr. Felix Mellawarchchy, SDB and Fr. Lionel Braganza, SDB with the support and encouragement of his Lordship, Monsignor Camillo Ballin, Bishop of Kuwait Vicariate, to bring alive the letters of St. Paul.
The Director of the play, Mr. Tony Gonsalves, has successfully driven home the message of the play, right into the spirits, minds and hearts of all who were in attendance along with some soulful and scintillating music arranged by Blossom Pereira, the Musical Director.
An approximate number of 75 artistes from various walks of life, right from tiny tots, youth to senior adults, voluntarily took up various roles in the play, displaying their rare and hidden talents much to the surprise and delight of the Christian community. The technical crew comprised of Anand and his team ‘Illuminations’ who handled the light and sound which illuminated and enhanced the effects of the play.
The spectacular moments of the Centurion were captured by Mr. Winston Alphonso, the ace photographer, and Mr. Alban D’souza, the creative videographer.
The organizers have thanked all the participants and volunteers for their help and contribution towards various arrangements in the musical and its overwhelming
success.