As part of the ongoing 16 days of activism against women and children, Peace In ArtÔÇöa local annual charity theatre production, staged an intimate play on the evening of November 29th at the National Museum Little Theatre to highlight the violence that continues to scourge many women and children.
Themed “From peace in the home to peace in the world: make education safe for all,” the show explored the many facets of abuse that victimize the vulnerable such as physical abuse, suicide, child negligence, prostitution, intergenerational relationships and alcohol abuse that occur in homes and in learning spaces. Despite the low turnout, the monologues were moving, captivating and gave the audience a raw glimpse of the complex issues affecting many families in our communities.
“We chose to have a classroom setting and explore the different challenges faced by students, especially the female students. This year we have also touched on inter-generational relationships, negative pressure from home, lack of a support structure and the silence of onlookers as abuse happens to those around us,” explains co-founder Pato Kelesitse.
Running for its fourth year, the play, directed by Pato Kelesitse and Nyakallo Kamyuka under their initiative ‘Love Is Art’, was created to bring change and raise awareness in communities.
“Love is Art is a social enterprise whose primary focuses are to promote the arts and fundraise for charities through the performing arts ranging from acting, dance, singing and fine arts, spreading awareness on the different social issues that we face as Batswana, mainly gender based issues,” says Pato.
Artists included actors Kgotla Molefe, Marang Molosiwa, Justice, Dingalo Mpolaise, Faith and singer Samantha Mogwe. The show brought a refreshing outlook on abuseÔÇödeviating from clich├® narratives, and cast members delivered strong brilliant performances some of which are based on true stories. ‘Minkie’s story’ stood out the most, which chronicled a mother who forced her child into prostitution for her own economic gain.
“This play was very moving, and as an activist, the issues that surfaced are reflective of the realities within our society. With such quality shows, more light can be shed on how to bring about effective solutions,” says attendee Peter Sejoe of Men and Boys for Gender Equality.
At the end of the show, the audience got to interact with the cast for a discussion on matters such as lack of involvement of teachers concerning their students’ experiences and building a safe environment for both women and children. All proceeds made from the show will be donated to Gamodubu Child Care Trust, which is a registered trust that aids the government in caring for the welfare of orphans, vulnerable and HIV/AIDS infected children. The trust currently has 207 registered orphans and vulnerable children, 22 of which live on-site. For more information on Love Is Art or inquires on how to make donations, visit their Facebook page Love is Art or email [email protected]
