The Museum Theatre at Egmore was abuzz with children and echoed with their rhymes and songs long after the event, just as the children would be miming and singing, “Five little monkeys swinging on the tree” or “Hara samandar, Gopi Chander,” long after the show.

Such is the power of music and dance. Such also was the involvement of the children in the event hosted by Jeeva and Krishna Iyer as part of NalandaWay’s annual Art, Arattai and Aarpattam festival. It started with the ABCD rhyme in fast tempo. Once the hosts gained the children’s attention there was no stopping them.

The duo involved not only children but also the parents in an impromptu dance and singing routine. Parents too obliged and the auditorium, which was packed to capacity, was fun-filled for two hours.

The team of singers was a pillar of strength to the programme, meeting the demands of Jeeva and Krishna. Also, the team of guitarist, violinist, keyboard artist and drummer impressed in providing instrumental support.

The sing-along proved beyond doubt that singing, dancing, mouthing rhymes is far more enjoyable than reciting it sotto voce. This also goes on to prove that music is a better form of teaching young children. The children who attended were so enthusiastic that they vied with one another to go up on stage and sing along with Jeeva and Krishna. They responded promptly and loudly to all that they were asked to do by the duo on stage.

In an age when truly interactive programmes for children are few and far between, programmes such as the sing-along is a welcome change for children and parents alike. NalandaWay’s Art, Arattai and Aarpattam is a good way of providing a platform for performers and a wholesome entertainment for discerning audiences.