There was a thud in the heart when my friend called me two days back if I were interested in the program of ‘Chinese Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe’ because there was a wish in the far end of my being to watch it live if given a chance. So, when the opportunity knocks at your door, only a fool would kick it aside. I was not one at least in this one. The program was on 6th March at 8 p.m. and so I geared myself up to watch. And it is called 'MY DREAM'.
Yesterday evening rushed to the Cultural Hall and waited in the queue. We also happened to speak to a couple of Chinese men standing behind us whose faces were glowing with pride when we managed to strike a conversation. I can see patriotism behind those gleeful expressions and it is quite natural for anyone to feel so.
We were inside the Hall well in advance. It was already full with Bahrainis, Chinese, Indians and many other nationalities. I was watching with a chuckle the young Bahraini girls sitting beside me on the steps texting seriously and sincerely non-stop.
The program began. The next two hours were spellbinding. The M.C., dancers, singers, musicians, instrumentalists and all other artists were physically disabled. The hearing impaired danced in groups those unimaginable feats in perfect synchronization. The visually impaired musicians and singers were deeply sensitive to music which is the connecting bond for their complete harmony. While the dancers cannot hear the thundering applause, the musicians cannot see the standing ovation they received. Their resistance to give up life was evident from their passionate display of colourful presentation of Truth, Love and Peace.
The Thousand Hands of Bodhisattva, The Soul of a Peacock, Butterly Lovers, Spring of Joy, Green Seedlings, Yellow Earth, The Code of Life, We are the world are quite a few to name them. 'Spring of Joy' was performed by visually impaired artists.
I can feel their bodies pulsating with rhythm in their soundless world. I can see the beauty and light enjoyed by the blessed few behind darkness. I fully agree…
“…the Performing Troupe bears the dreams of people with disabilities and creates a special art which delights audiences, purifies the soul with Truth, Honesty and Virtue, encourage people by strong will, and delivers friendship with sincerity.”
Please visit http://www.mydream.org.cn for more details about the inside story behind the mammoth presentation.
Any number of words that I use to describe their performances would be inadequate. First time I realised the limitedness of words. I also realized that each soul is always brimming with dance and music to celebrate life with maximum colours, whatever be its limitations.
The show was one of spiritual more than arts. I can sense this at least intuitively.
My eyes were full of tears as God has taught me one more time how to celebrate life with a smile on the lips and dream big.
Do I have big dreams?
Of course, yes.
