FGS South Island NZ welcomes “Siddhartha Family”

The cast of “Siddhartha: The Musical”, known affectionately as the “Siddhartha Family”, under the supervision of Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Education and Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Philippines Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang, FGS Philippines Mabuhay Temple Supervisors Venerable Jue Lin and Venerable You Lin, arrived at Christchurch, New Zealand on the 7th and 9th of May as separate groups. The team of 43 people had but a short amount of time to rehearse and make last minute preparations for their show on the 10th of May at the Isaac Theatre Royal. On their arrival, they were welcomed by FGS South Island New Zealand Supervisor Venerable Jue Xi, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) South Island New Zealand President See Shen Lee, and a few other BLIA members.

For the whole daylight hours on the 9th and 10th of May, the stage performers and backstage volunteers went through several rigorous and demanding rounds of rehearsals under the supervision of director Sarah Mae Enclona-Henderson. It is hoped that the practice rehearsals will lead to a perfectly executed performance on the final show. Venerable Yung Guang personally acted as their spiritual mentor, leading prayers to calm the body and mind, so that the actors would be at their best state when the show begins.

FGS and BLIA South Island New Zealand as co-organizers of the musical performance began much of the preparatory work half a year in advance. Although it is their first time organizing such an event, high standards were set on finding the right venue that has a proper stage, lighting, sound system, not to mention all the transport and accommodation that was needed for the visiting stage performers, as well as media marketing and selling of the tickets amongst other details that had to be taken care of. It is hoped that this high level of preparation would enable this demanding musical to run smoothly to the desired standard. Advertisements were placed on buses, and broadcast out to televisions, radio and web media outlets to spread the word on “Siddhartha: The Musical”. Not only that, huge social networks were mobilised, by spreading the word to big communities groups, motels, businesses and also via the internet in order to raise ticket sales. Two vegetarian food stalls set up during the lantern festival period also helped to fund the musical show's costs. Last but not least, the organisers would also like to thank all the help and benefactor and sponsors from New Zealand's North Island, Malaysia, Australia and other places who have put in their time and effort to bring this musical into what it is. Together, everyone successfully met and surpassed the target of 1000 tickets, which also boosted the morale of the team.

After the performance was over, the Siddhartha Family had a day to relax on the 11th of May before flying overseas again. Venerable Abbess Manshin took the team to visit the FGS South Island temple's main shrine, and explained some of the history of the temple, and the recent rebuilding process, not to mention the great role and significance the musical had on Christchurch which is in much need of such acts to restore life to the city. The Siddhartha Family later had a buffet meal at the newly reopened Teahouse, and afterwards had an opportunity to take a half day tour of some sights around Christchurch City. We offer our thanks and gratitude to the Siddhartha Family for coming at this time during the Christchurch rebuilding period, giving us joy and hope for a better future.