Four schools in Bumthang took part in a theatrical competition organised by the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre to nurture students’ creativity, build confidence and preserve Bhutanese culture, as school theatre performances gradually become less common across the country.
Each school presented a 30-minute skit based on different themes, many highlighting local culture, traditions and values.
Ura Central School received the judges’ top recognition for its performance on Yaklha Choedpa, a ritual practised mainly by high-altitude pastoral herders in Ura Valley. The ritual is performed to ensure the health, fertility and protection of livestock.
Chumey Central School presented a skit on Tamzhing Phaglha Choedpa, a sacred festival commemorating the construction of Tamzhing Monastery in the 16th century by the revered saint and treasure revealer, Tertoen Pema Lingpa.
Jakar Higher Secondary School staged a drama depicting Guru Rinpoche’s visit to Bumthang, while Tang Central School highlighted cultural traditions that are gradually losing importance among young people.
The performances gave students an opportunity to showcase their acting skills, learn about their heritage and share cultural stories with their peers.
According to the organisers, such platforms are particularly important for students in central and eastern Bhutan, where opportunities to participate in similar activities are limited.
Kuenga Lhuendup (PhD), Executive Director of Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre, said creating such opportunities for students was important, as schools in western districts had more opportunities compared to those in central and eastern districts.
All participating schools received cash prizes and certificates in recognition of their efforts.
The Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre organised the competition in collaboration with the district administration, with financial support from the Yang Ya Foundation in Thimphu.
Organisers hope to make the competition an annual event, providing students with more opportunities to develop their theatrical skills and keep the tradition of school theatre alive.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
Edited by Sonam Pem
