Objectives
The project uses theatre as a powerful tool to give voice and a means of expression to children and youths in Zambia. It also sensitizes the community to the importance of education for vulnerable children and contributes to overcoming the social stigma associated with street children and people with disabilities or HIV-AIDS.
Beneficiaries
- Approximately 2’000 vulnerable children and youths (organized in 40 groups of 50 people each), living in marginalized communities in Lusaka and 5 other districts (Ndola, Kitwe, Kabwe, Kaoma, Livingstone) and participating in the workshops and shows;
- Audience of the 2016 Barefeet Youth Art Festival.
Activities
Barefeet Theatre uses a multi-dimensional approach based on theatre, music and dance, psycho-social support, creativity and self-expression (“Participatory Process Performance” methodology) in order to respond to the needs of vulnerable children living in 40 marginal communities in 6 districts of Zambia (Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, Kabwe, Kaoma, Livingstone).
Each community hosted an artistic workshop that culminated in the production of a show that was presented in the streets and squares of the communities involved in the Barefeet Youth Art Festival in Lusaka. The plays were also performed during the event Heroes. For the children it was a unique opportunity to perform at the national level in front of a larger audience, collaborate with international artists, be exposed to positive role models and experience the enthusiasm of the performance. In addition, during the Festival, the youths of the communities presented the show “Bring it on Zambia” in a marginalized community of Lusaka and performed along famous artists.
Barefeet has developed its own methodology, the “Participatory Process Performance (PPP)”, which is used in marginalized communities to involve children and youths. The subject of the plays are chosen directly by the young participants, thus encouraging youths to tell their stories, share their concerns and forge together possible solutions. The workshop becomes a place to explore issues of concern through theatre, dance and music, elaborating on individual experiences in a safe environment.
Partner
The organization was founded in 2006 by former street children to respond to the difficulties faced by young people living in the streets of Zambia. The theatre, games and creativity encourage vulnerable children in Zambia to aspire at a better life.[/fusion_tab][/fusion_tabs]
