Redbridge Mayor Applauds Taal at Bancroft’s
Friday 9 and Saturday 10 December saw almost 200 pupils from the Senior School take part in the annual Taal event. With its fusion of dancing, music and acting, Taal is more than just another School production. It has grown over 14 years to become an integral and much anticipated fixture in our calendar as well as an important part of Bancroft's cultural life. The event is totally student driven with members of the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Muslim Society (HSBM Society) writing, choreographing and directing the event. Bancroftians assume full responsibility for everything, from finding sponsorship from local businesses to sourcing costumes. Taal Director, Umayair Ullah, commented on the incredible energy and enthusiasm of the cast which resulted in "a stunning show of which we were utterly proud."
U6th pupil, Harleen Sian, one of our HSBM Society Presidents, said how important Taal has become for her and the School community, “Taal is an incredibly anticipated event each year at Bancroft’s and I cannot imagine my School life without it. It has allowed me to showcase my passion for all varieties of dance and learn new styles which I would never have experienced if it weren’t for this amazing production. It brings to the surface so many different cultures from South Asia and creates a sense of pride and community within those who take part.” Shreya Sheth, Taal Treasurer, will leave Bancroft’s with very fond memories of Taal, “Over the last five years,Taal has played a huge part in my time at Bancroft’s. It has allowed me to make a number of friends over a number of different year groups and allowed my confidence to grow tremendously.”
Taal is a major fund raiser for charities and this year it is supporting three charities. United World Schools, a charity which is transforming the lives of some of the poorest and most vulnerable children in the World through educational opportunities; money raised will support Bancroft’s partner school in Cambodia. Friendsline which is a relatively new charity connecting, educating and empowering women and girls from all over the world. The third charity, Alzheimer’s Research UK, was chosen for personal reasons; Karan Shah, HSBM Society President, witnessed first-hand the severity of dementia. Karan’s grandmother suffered from this for several years, and he saw the gradual deterioration in her well-being. Taal Director, Umayair Ullah said that he hopes that this year’s Taal will raise over eleven thousand pounds for these causes. Aside from the performances, the Taal Committee have raised money from a Sponsored Silence, Krispy Kreme sales and the sale of Taal Hoodies.
As someone who has a good knowledge of Indian music and dancing the show was of a high standard. I enjoyed the show and wish the school and its pupils best of luck in the future.
Cllr Gurdial Bhamr, Mayor of Redbridge
The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Gurdial Bhamra attended the Saturday performance and described it as, “one of the best musical events in my calendar year as the Mayor of Redbridge. What pleased more was that pupils from all different faiths and communities took part in producing, directing and taking part in all elements of the show. That is real community cohesion.” Bancroft’s Head, Mr Simon Marshall said that Taal was a “joyous and wonderful evening’s entertainment. All students involved are to be congratulated.”
