It was not just the rhythm or the choreography that captivated the crowd, but also the colour, culture, and confidence of Kianda School students as they twirled their way into the nation’s heart with a stunning performance of the Chinese umbrella dance at the National Music Festivals Gala.
The girls, dressed in Chinese attire, performed Class 1065’s Oriental dance, which stole the show, earning an impressive 92 per cent score and clinching the top position in their category.
Their performance was not just a triumph but also a celebration of cultural exchange and curriculum evolution.
Under the skilled mentorship of trainer Pamela Odengo, the students delivered a flawless display of elegance and discipline that left the audience in awe, including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos, who applauded the performance from his front-row seat.
“We decided to try something new this year because we have a Chinese-origin student named Weddy. We’ve had years of success with Italian dances. However, with the flexibility the Competency-Based Education offers, we thought, why not venture into Asian countries, which we have won,” said Mrs. Odengo.
Mrs Odengo said the introduction of Competency-Based Education (CBE) was designed to promote practical skills and holistic development in Kenyan learners, opening doors to a broader array of learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classrooms and textbooks.
For Kianda School, she said it is a welcome platform not only to showcase artistic talents but also to engage students in global cultural appreciation.
“This curriculum is a game changer. It encourages students to embrace diversity and learn foreign languages. This dance is a perfect example. They’re learning about Chinese culture, music, costume, movements, and it’s all integrated into their education,” she added while celebrating their trophy.
The Chinese umbrella dance, traditionally performed by young girls to express joy, elegance, and unity, was executed
with grace and precision.
The students wore vibrant traditional costumes, their silk red and yellow umbrellas spinning in unison, as they moved in a seamless blend to form different formations with the umbrellas.
“It was like being transported to a different world. The formation of flowers with the umbrella was thrilling,” said one of the audience members, Grace Mukiri.
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Although the Chinese umbrella dance was a new endeavour, excellence in the performing arts is nothing new for Kianda School.
The institution has a rich history of participating in and often dominating various categories in national festivals, with notable successes in winning different awards.
“This dance represents more than just a performance. It’s about innovation, curiosity and the courage to try something different. That’s what we aim to instil in our students,” added their trainer.
The performance also received praise from education officials present at the event, many of whom lauded the school’s commitment to blending academic excellence with creative expression.
Mrs Odengo also expressed optimism about the government’s recent proposal to establish a national performing arts academy.
She said Kianda School would be eager and honoured to contribute to and benefit from such an institution.
“There is so much untapped talent in this country. If nurtured early and supported with the right infrastructure, Kenyan students can shine not just locally but also on international stages,” said Mrs Odengo.
She believes such an academy could serve as a launchpad for students interested in pursuing professional careers in music, dance and theatre.
By John Majau
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