On Saturday, youth from the Nelson area will perform a theatre production entitled “It” and “What Not to Do When Coming Out” at SelfDesign High.
This production is the result of the work of a wonderful group of youth ages 14-18 who have been involved in the Gender Action Project (GAP). GAP is a a ten-week long workshop series facilitated by the West Kootenay Women's Association, and supported by the Columbia Basin Trust, the Nelson and District Credit Union and SelfDesign High. GAP offers youth a safe place to explore gender-based issues and oppression through games, exercises, discussions and the development of theatre skills using Theatre of the Oppressed techniques. The result is this self-written forum theatre production.
Unlike traditional theatre, forum is a space where the community is invited to be a part of the play. These plays don't have simple resolutions, but instead initially end in crises. The audience is asked to change the outcome by offering alternatives to the characters. It is an exercise in collective problem-solving, community responsibility, and self-exploration.
GAP has provided a powerful and inspiring learning process for all involved, and the work of these youth will be honored and built upon by the community attending this performance.
The performance goes at SelfDesign High (402 Victoria Street) at 7 p.m. Admission for adults is $10 and youth $5. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
If you want to know more about the project or register for the next workshops, email martine4gaptheatre@gmail.com or call 250-352-9949.