Aidan, a rising star in arts and cricket

FOR Aidan Mamchan, life is a stage.

This 11-year-old is hoping that whatever path is destined for him, it would include the performing arts, sports and medicine.

He is an aspiring actor, classical singer, calypsonian, fast bowler, cricket commentator for Cricket 360, captain for his house, Chaconia, and is also on the students council at Cedar Grove Primary School in Palmiste. He has won the talent segment of the National Spelling Bee competition and received certificates of participation from the San Fernando Junior Arts Festival and the More Than Just a Talent competition.

In addition to his numerous extra-curricular activities, Aidan scores excellent grades.

He is one of two sons for sports journalist Vinode Mamchan and his wife, Nadine. His older brother, Liam, plays for the TT Under-15 cricket team and has been called for trials with the Under-17 team.

Aidan also wants to play for the national team.

Although his favourite subjects are English Language and English Literature, his desire is to become a paediatrician.

He brought his father to near tears when he explained the reason for his career choice.

“My dad wanted to become a doctor before he became a reporter, so I want to become a doctor for him. I want to fulfill his dream.”

An emotional Mamchan said it was the first time he was hearing his son’s reason for choosing this career and that he was very proud and touched by the gesture.

Aidan is awaiting results of the Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) exams he sat in March, hoping to pass for his school of choice, Naparima College. It is the school his brother attends.

Between now and when school reopens in September, Aidan has found the perfect way to celebrate the end of two intense years of SEA lessons, by taking to the stage.

Passionate about the arts and culture, Aidan grasped the opportunity offered by creative director of Iere Productions, Victor Edwards, to play a role in The Pearl.

The Pearl will run from May 23 to 26 at the Naparima Bowl, San Fernando in tribute to the late actress and educator, Mavis Lee Wah.

Edwards discovered Aidan when he directed a play for Cedar Grove. Impressed with his bravery and talent, he has cast Aidan in three roles in The Pearl. That of a beggar, a robber and as a chorale speaker.

Aidan said his talent for chorale speaking and his love for acting developed when he participated in the Oratory Foundation beginner’s course.

“I was the only male student to get a certificate for my oratory skills. All the other winners were girls,” Aidan said.

He said the activities he is involved in has helped him to develop his analytical and critical thinking skills.

“It is not a burden. It’s all worthwhile. It has helped me in many ways. As house captain, having to deal with children who are not always the best behaved, has helped me to be more patient. You have to figure out why they act the way they do and help solve their problems.”