International Children’s Friendship Festival |14 May 2015

Kids give taste of performance to be showcased

The 12 lucky children who will be taking part in the International Children’s Friendship Festival in Normandy, France next month staged a fundraising show on Saturday evening to give the audience a taste of what they have prepared for the festival.

Among the audience to watch the talented children’s performance  at the International Conference Centre (ICCS) was Designated Minister Vincent Meriton who is also the Minister  for  Social Affairs, Community Development and Sports, Minister for investment, Entrepreneurship Development and Business Innovation Michael Benstrong, Women and Children’s Affairs Ambassador Dr Erna Athanasius, principal secretary for Culture  Benjamine Rose, principal secretary for Foreign Affairs ambassador Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, parents and other distinguished guests.

Performances by these children included Tanbour where they not only sang and danced to this song but also beat the drums.

The children wowed the audience with the traditional ‘Avan 4’ and ‘Avan 3’ dances as their proud parents and family members cheered loudly and excitedly in response.

During the show, a new band full of fresh talents called BREEZE accompanied the children and performed live with young artists such as Victoria Duthil and Keshia.  The band really entertained the audience who cheered continuously despite the hall not being full.  Cable Tunes sponsored artists Smash Kid and Reggie also performed some of their popular hit songs.

In her welcoming speech, Dr Athanasius expressed her pride to be leading this delegation of children to the international festival and said this trip to Normandy will certainly be one to remember as the children will showcase our beloved Seychelles and share our culture and history with their counterparts there.

“They will also learn about Normandy’s rich history and culture” said Dr Athanasius.

She said the children will get the chance to meet last year’s Nobel Peace Prize winners – Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Sathyarthi – who have both worked and suffered for the cause of children’s rights.

 “They will also learn about the role of sports and the spirit of the Olympics through the work of Pierre de Coubertin,” she added.

Dr Athanasius also presented certificates of appreciation to the sponsors and all the people who helped make the trip happen for the children.

The accompanying photos of the show were taken by our photographer Joena Bonnelame.

Ralista Hortère