CONCEPTS AND SOLUTIONS FOR THE "AT RISK'
The irony of the times in which we live is that the increased sophistication of the human existence seems to parallel an increase in the abuse of women and children. In addition, it is questionable whether justice systems have matured enough to give women and young people the level of protection that they need.
Drama and the dramatic arts have been well known internationally for an ability to give insight, and be a catalyst for change in the most difficult situations.
'Shades of I-She' and 'Baby Doll Meets Midnight Robber' are productions based on original scripts written by author, cultural activist and award winning actress Eintou Pearl Springer. “Shades of I-She” is a production which deals with issues of domestic violence, incest and rape. Performances and interactive sessions with the audience will be successful tools to introduce the problems faced by many of our young women. Ultimately, Shades of I-She works because it is a celebration of women and offers hope. It can reach our young women and help them on the road to knowing and valuing themselves and consequently breaking the cycle of abuse. The production is a catalyst for discussion, solution generation and empowerment. Many women from across the Caribbean region who have seen the play, acknowledge the positive changes it was able to bring to their lives. It proved suitable for audiences of Secondary school children and older.
“Baby Doll Meets Midnight Robber" deals with the behavioural challenges facing our young people, especially during the Carnival period. The playwright uses Traditional Carnival characters from Trinidad and Tobago and through their well defined, even stylised personalities, the theatricality and vigour of their speech patterns and movement, explored the themes of aids, promiscuity, teenage pregnancy and drugs, are portrayed in a carnival setting. There are lessons to be learnt and real life situations presented, all geared towards changing behaviour patterns. The performance is followed by a discussion session facilitated by Ms. Springer and with the involvement of the other actors. This interaction is a critical component of our intervention strategy, as our essential purpose behind this production is to begin the process of healing and arrive at viable solutions. These high quality productions have proved their ability to promote deep levels of responses from men, women and our at risk youth. |
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