MUMBAI, FEBRUARY 2, 2010: St. Dominic Savio High School, Andheri had its Annual Day cum Prize Distribution Day on January 30, 2010. The Chief Guest for this day and occasion was Fr. Elson Barretto, the Provincial Economer of the Mumbai Province. The event began with a solemn entry with the scouts and escorts leading the dignitaries to their places and the flag bearers taking the lead.
A Welcome Song was sung by the school choir to all the parents and guests present in the tune of Jai Ho, getting everyone in the mood for the evening. The NIOS section danced to the welcome song to make it lively and colourful in the tri-colours of the flag.
The tiny tots then sang a prayer song invoking the blessings of the Lord on all those present for the occasion. It was truly wonderful to see them sing with such enthusiasm and gusto.
Fr. Godfrey D'Souza, the Rector was called to give the welcome address. In his address, he spoke of the event that was taking place and told the audience that the Salesian Congregation was celebrating 150 years of its foundation. He touched upon parenting and the importance of parenting and requested the parents to give special attention to their children and a listening ear to their problems. He also briefly highlighted the recent spate of suicides and asked parents to watch for signs from children and to help them through their problems and difficulties by giving them a chance to confide in someone and share their anxieties.
The Chief Guest, Fr. Elson Barretto, spoke about winning and winners and congratulated all those who would be getting prizes for the occasion. He however said that what mattered was not just winning a prize in some competition or exams, but rather we win in life - that is more important and winning in life means, if I have done something good and reached out to someone in life then I have passed the most important test - the test of life! Fr. Elson gave away a number of prizes and trophies for excellence in studies, sports and other co-curricular activities.
With a short break after the prize distribution the audience were waiting for the musical 'Don't Stop'
Don't Stop is a musical all about your heartbeat and what it really wants. Bill, the central character is trapped between what he has to do against what his heart wants him to do. Being a big fan of Michael Jackson, he is forced into learning boxing by his father. They say boys don't dance and girls don't play football. Hence this Musical is an eye opener for your heart to triumph over and break free from the myths in our day to day lives.
Don Bosco, through his Salesians, helps little Bill to live his dream. It was a fantastic performance put up by the youngsters. The direction and choreography was done by Mr. Avit Dias. It was a musical of great magnitude and a big cast. A little more than 900 students came on stage. The Annual Day had a three fold purpose: To celebrate 150 years of the Foundation of the Salesian Congregation; to Felicitate the retiring teachers and a tribute to MJ - Michael Jackson, the king of pop.