Bold Narratives Shine in Kerala Kalolsavam Drama Amid Rising Costs
Bold Narratives Shine in Kerala Kalolsavam Drama Amid Rising Costs
Bold, energetic performances in the HSS drama category showcase tribal resilience and migration stories, while backstage concerns clock in on rising production costs.
The Drama competition in the HSS category at Kerala Kalolsavam 2026 lit up the stage with performances that were bold in vision and rich in energy. The event, staged at a prominent school venue on Saturday, highlighted how school theatre is drawing bigger crowds and deeper attention.
Opening the showcase was Eravi by National HSS, Kolathur, a play set against a tribal backdrop. It tells the story of a tribal queen who rises against invading forces and refuses to bow before oppression. “It is a play against fascist forces,” one team member said, and the production’s synchronized movements, intense performances, and gripping stage language reflected months of disciplined preparation.
Equally compelling was Pokku by St. Mary’s HSS, Edoor, a layered narrative on migration and generational change. The drama blended humour with seriousness, leaving a thoughtful impression about journeys and no return. A Class XII student, Anna Rose Denny, stood out as a spirited mother, anchoring a scene that lingered with audiences. Model Residential School (MRS), Vadasserikkara, presented the anguish of tribal communities displaced from their land, resources, and traditions.
Other important themes echoed across the productions, including religious fascism, issues of immigrants, and attacks on minorities. Each play unfolded before a full house, underscoring the growing appeal of school theatre. Yet backstage conversations echoed a concern: escalating production costs threaten to limit participation to financially stronger schools. Many called for encouraging meaningful theatre with minimal props and modest budgets, ensuring the stage remains open to all and not just to those who can afford it.
