Colourful costumes, music and dance mark Neerja Modi World School’s annual function

Jaipur: The stage at Neerja Modi World School came alive on Saturday evening as more than 500 primary students put on a lively show of music, dance and theatre for their annual prize-giving ceremony.

Parents packed the hall, many standing at the back with phones held high, as children in bright costumes took turns under shifting stage lights and changing digital backdrops. The atmosphere was lively, with applause breaking out after performances.

One of the early performances stood out. A group of children appeared in white sleeveless tops, loose dhoti-style trousers and matching waistcoats decorated with colourful circular patterns. They moved with energy and coordination, linking arms and raising them high for a finish that drew cheers from the audience.

“They looked so confident,” one mother said afterwards. “You could see how much practice had gone into it.”

Other groups kept the energy high. A team in red and white outfits waved blue pom-poms and performed a cheerleading-style routine that had parents clapping along. Another group, dressed in blue with white accents, danced against a backdrop of geometric patterns, pointing upwards in coordinated formations.

Later, children in colourful yellow, green and pink skirts performed in front of a digital palace courtyard with arches and greenery. Their bright costumes stood out against the backdrop, giving the act a storybook feel.

A more dramatic performance followed, featuring students in black robes with red details, white shirts and ties. Their measured movements brought a different mood to the programme, contrasting with the energetic dance numbers.

Music was another highlight of the evening. Primary school vocalists performed first, followed by the senior school orchestra, which presented a mix of Indian and Western music. The combination of voices and instruments added variety to the programme.

The evening began with a welcome address and prize distribution, during which students were recognised for their academic and co-curricular achievements. Cultural performances followed, with groups taking turns on stage after weeks of preparation.

Teachers helped students rehearse their steps, follow musical cues and coordinate their movements. For younger participants, performing before a large audience was an opportunity to take the stage and showcase their abilities.

By the end of the evening, the programme had moved through dance, theatre and music, with each group bringing a different style to the stage. A vote of thanks brought the event to a close, giving students and their families a chance to celebrate the occasion and the work that had gone into preparing for the school’s annual function.