Barefeet Theatre

Lusaka, Zambia
In partnership with Barefeet Ireland

“What started as a few modest workshops with children living on the streets of Zambia has organically grown into one of the most exciting and inspiring projects working with children in the country” (Grainne O’Neill Barefeet Co-Founder).

Barefeet project uses theatre, art, dance, music and creative writing as a tool to engage with and support the development of children most at risk of disengaging from their communities. Barefeet offers them an opportunity to have their voices heard and a channel through which to express themselves.

With the overall goal of preventing children from living on the streets, Barefeet organises performing arts events throughout the year as a way of keeping the children engaged. This is done through numerous creative activities organised by Barefeet, such as storytelling, participatory workshops, theatre and dance, culminating in the annual Barefeet Youth Arts Festival (BYAF). All the children on the project contribute to the festival programme, which gives a huge public platform from which to break down stigmas and advocate for issues relating to orphans and abandoned children.

Barefeet tailor-made workshops are designed to impart live saving information to the children that they work with. Each of Barefeet modules covers topics that have been highlighted as critical in assisting with the healthy development of the young people they work with. Topics include: HIV/AIDS, violence, health, drugs and alcohol and children’s rights. All Barefeet workshops signpost the children to partner organisations offering additional services.

Currently, Barefeet has more than 30 members in five Zambian cities who work in various disciplines, passing skills and encouraging creativity, discipline and ambition among the young people. From issue-based drama to political satire, from popular musical theatre to gruelling physical spectacles, Barefeet Theatre relishes the versatility of the group in creating relevant and vibrant new work.The company is frequently commissioned to write and perform new pieces of theatre throughout Lusaka and beyond. Additionally the company has a functioning Children’s Council, they provide outreach activities and have their income generating performance wing.

Please read their website for further information.