Dressed in a glittery-blue dress, looking confident with a smile on her face, 7-year-old Naira Livia Fernandes, is all set to sing her solo in Comedian Richard’s tiatr, Maimchem Korun Ghott'tton, Sasumaink Khavoita Motton.
Her mother Gracy Fernandes, calm and composed, encourages her daughter to give of her best. “I always tell her to pray before she goes on stage. Having a daughter is a blessing and my husband and I are very proud of that at such a young age she has carved a niche for herself in the tiatr industry,” says Gracy.
On the occasion of National Girl Child Day, Gomantak Times Digital, focuses on girls who at a young age have showcased their talents in the field of theatre.
Like Naira, her 11-year-old sister Nyssa Gretchen Fernandes and other young girl artistes, we spoke to, are all managing school life and performing in tiatrs.
SCHOOL AND TIATR GO HAND-IN-HAND
Crizaila Savia Fernandes, 15, from Nuvem loves to go on stage and says she was inspired by her mother who also performs in tiatrs.
“I love to take up comedian role, but not all directors have those roles, so whatever role fits the script, I take. I have been acting from the age of four,” says Crizaila.
Her mother, Malita Braganza, who also performs in dramas, says, “As a child, she has never been fussy about waking up in the morning or completing her school homework. It’s only because of her discipline that I allowed her to take up tiatr gigs.”
However, this year, Crizaila has taken fewer shows as she needs to prepare for the board exams next year.
I love to take up comedian role, but not all directors have those roles, so whatever role fits the script, I take. I have been acting from the age of four.
Crizaila Savia Fernandes
On the other hand, Gracy was not aware that her daughter had a voice of an angel until Fr Milagres Dias, composed a song – Nustekan Carmin – which is still being watched.
“Naira is still learning to read but she had to memorise the entire song, and she has a very good grasping skill, so I have no problem. She is also doing well in her studies, I do have to sit with her and take up her studies.”
PARENTS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE
It goes without saying that parents play an important role in the upbringing of their children and extra-curricular activities like being a part of tiatr troupes.
Judica Gomes does this for her daughters – Rihana (14) and Rishona (17) – who sing and play the violin for director Comedian Brian’s Mhoji Khori Maim.
“I believe that everyone must try their hand at whatever life offers them and that is what I try to teach my girls. I wanted them to try singing, play the violin and they are doing very well,"
She adds, "It takes a lot of effort as a parent, from training them to making sure they reach the venue on time and home safely, and ensuring that they also concentrate on their studies. As a parent I have to be cautious, I go with them wherever they have any shows.”
From winning awards to getting recognised in the tiatr industry – these young girls are slowly paving their path to glory.
The journey is not easy – from balancing school life to tiatr practices to pressure of performing well – these young minds have support, dedication and belief in themselves to make it big.
