Traditional rituals, sacred festivals and centuries-old stories found a new voice through young performers as four schools in Bumthang came together for a theatrical competition aimed at reviving school theatre and strengthening cultural awareness among students.
Organised by the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre, the competition provided a platform for students to explore their creative abilities while reconnecting with Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage at a time when theatrical performances in schools are becoming increasingly uncommon.
The participating schools brought different aspects of Bhutanese history, spirituality and traditional practices to the stage through 30-minute performances, transforming local narratives into engaging theatrical presentations.
Ura Central School earned the highest recognition from the judges for its portrayal of Yaklha Choedpa, a traditional ritual observed predominantly by high-altitude herding communities in Ura Valley. The performance shed light on the spiritual practices associated with pastoral life, particularly rituals conducted to seek protection, good health and fertility for livestock.
Chumey Central School turned its attention to Tamzhing Phaglha Choedpa, a religious festival associated with the historic Tamzhing Monastery. Its presentation revisited the monastery’s establishment in the 16th century by Tertoen Pema Lingpa, the revered Bhutanese saint and treasure revealer, highlighting the region’s enduring spiritual legacy.
Students from Jakar Higher Secondary School brought to life the historic and religious significance of Guru Rinpoche’s visit to Bumthang, while Tang Central School explored the gradual erosion of traditional customs and values among younger generations.
Beyond the competition itself, the event encouraged students to engage with stories and practices that form an important part of their communities’ identities. Preparing and performing the plays offered opportunities to develop communication skills, teamwork, stage confidence and a deeper understanding of local traditions.
The initiative also sought to address the unequal availability of extracurricular opportunities across Bhutan.
Kinga Lhundup, Executive Director of the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Centre, emphasised the need to create more platforms for students outside the western districts, where access to such activities is comparatively greater.
The competition was intended not only to identify theatrical talent but also to encourage schools to revive performance-based learning as a means of cultural education and creative expression.
Every participating school received cash prizes and certificates in acknowledgement of the students’ efforts and contributions.
The event was conducted in partnership with the Bumthang district administration, with financial assistance from the Thimphu-based Yang Ya Foundation.
With plans to establish the competition as an annual event, the organisers hope to encourage sustained participation from schools and create a lasting space for young people to discover theatre.
At a time when traditional knowledge faces the challenge of being passed on to new generations, the performances demonstrated how school theatre can serve a purpose beyond entertainment—connecting young Bhutanese with the history, beliefs and cultural practices that continue to shape their communities.
