Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard unveils landmark musical theatre production

19 October 2025, 08:13

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard has set a new benchmark for educational and cultural excellence in Northern Uganda with the announcement of its upcoming musical theatre production, Home for Christmas.

The media launch, held on 18 October 2025 at Jaca Gardens, Laroo Division, Gulu City, brought together local media houses, school staff, parents, and the Inspector of Schools, highlighting the school’s commitment to academic and cultural development.

Director Irene Ocwee Trends, who has led Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard for several years, addressed the gathering, emphasising that the event was dedicated to the media.

She welcomed her colleagues from other schools in the region and underscored the importance of sharing Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard’s achievements and innovative programmes.

Director Ocwee Trends also expressed gratitude for the presence of the Inspector of Schools and commended Mr Ojok Dickson, Chairperson of the School Management Committee, for his unwavering support in organising the event.

The production, scheduled to take place from 12 to 14 December 2025 at Gulu Senior Secondary School Hall, promises to be a landmark event in Northern Uganda.

The musical theatre production combines acting, singing, and dancing, delivering valuable life lessons through performance.

Director Trends revealed that the production will feature 200 pupils performing 15 original songs and over ten choreographed dances, presenting a narrative that addresses real-life family challenges and celebrates love, reconciliation, and Christmas values.

At the heart of the storyline is the family of Galdino, who passed away leaving two wives. The lead roles include Chulina, played by Doreena Hems Oryem, and Lagedo, Chulina’s co-wife, played by Aloja Belinda. Other characters include Bo and Lamaro, Chulina’s house help.

The songs will span a variety of genres, from English ballads to R&B, reggae, and rap, ensuring a culturally rich and diverse musical experience for audiences.

“This production is not just entertainment — it is a mentorship programme,” Director Trends emphasised.

Pupils have been trained under the guidance of professional mentors and artists, including Director and Writer Mrs Judith Lucy Adong, Music Director Mr Ssenkumba Andrew, First Assistant Director Ms Pamela Keryeko, and mentors Joshua, Emmanuel, Regan, and Richard, among others.

“Through this collaboration, we have not only elevated the children’s artistic skills but also positively influenced the school’s discipline and culture,” she added.

Mr Ojok Dickson, Chairperson of the School Management Committee at Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard, who is also the current District Councillor V for Angagwara Sub-county and a candidate for LC5 Chairperson, Pader District, underscored the significance of the event.

“Our objective is to showcase our children’s talents, bring quality cultural events to Northern Uganda, and allow our community to enjoy entertainment traditionally seen in Kampala,” he said.

He highlighted that the event is fully funded by parents’ contributions and is offered free of charge to the public, reflecting the school’s commitment to community engagement and holistic child development.

Pupils at the school expressed their excitement. Komagum Belinda, a Primary Six pupil, praised the school’s emphasis on health and education, noting the nutritious meals and supportive learning environment.

Okello Evans Elisha, in Primary Five, described the school as a family where discipline is applied with love and every child feels included.

Dorina Hans Oryem Charles, a Primary Six pupil, highlighted the school’s academic rigour and mentorship programmes, saying that the guidance she receives at Hilder has prepared her and her classmates to confidently perform in a production of this magnitude.

Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard has a 15-year legacy in Gulu City and is well known for integrating family values into education.

The school boasts excellent academic performance in Gulu City mock exams, strong PLE results with national recognition — including a previous national ranking of 19th — as well as innovative school uniform and sportswear programmes, and professional mentorship initiatives.

The school currently enrols over 800 pupils, reflecting its significant role in the community and its impact on education in Northern Uganda.

Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard is located in the heart of Gulu City, Pece-Laroo Division, on Plot 3, Kilak Road, adjacent to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, providing convenient access for pupils across the city and neighbouring districts.

“We invite parents, community members, and everyone from Gulu, Pader, Agago, Kitgum, Omoro, Lamwo, Amuru, and the wider Northern Uganda region to come and celebrate love, family, and community with us. Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard remains committed to building a culture of excellence, discipline, and care for our children.”

With Home for Christmas, Hilder Nursery and Primary School Vanguard is not only providing a platform for children to showcase their talents but also demonstrating the transformative power of combining education, mentorship, and cultural engagement to positively impact society.