In partnership with
CANANICA, a Canadian charitable organization, an exciting project is underway in rural Nicaragua. Born from a strong belief in the value of creative expression during adolescence,
Project PDTC (Proyecto Desarollo Teatral Campesino/Project for Rural Theatrical Development) has formed theatre groups of a dozen youth, aged 10-15, in seven villages.
Starting in January of 2010, day-long workshops bring all the groups together once a month to study theatre with Project PDTC’s director, Juan Ramon Rivera Pérez, who brings many years of study, acting and organizational experience to our team. Each group also spends one day a week under the guidance of Juan Ramon and a mentor from the local theatre troupe, Capullo, working collaboratively to create, write and mount its own play. In May, the creative process will culminate in a festival showcasing the work of all seven groups. Held in the regional centre, Achuapa, the festival will invite both the friends and family of participants, as well as school groups and the general public. If funds permit, the plays will take to the road with stops in nearby villages and urban centers.
Building upon the strong Nicaraguan tradition of theatre as a vehicle for social activism and commentary, each group will explore issues relevant to their own community (environmental, economic, health, cultural, etc.). Unique in its appeal and accessibility to young and old, educated and illiterate alike, theatre provides both an artistic and educational venue for the participants and the society at large. With this in mind, Project PDTC has secured the enthusiastic support of the local municipal government and regional health authorities. We are extremely excited to be working with Dr. Montoya and other local leaders, whose wealth of experience will be invaluable as speakers and consultants during our Saturday workshops.
Project PDTC’s vision is not to sponsor a one-off phenomenon, but rather to establish a dependable, annual institution in the communities it serves. With each passing year, Project PDTC hopes to expand into additional villages and provide a model for similar projects around the country and beyond. Perhaps most importantly, by working in small rural communities of only few hundred inhabitants, the project is focusing on youth who would otherwise have few organized creative opportunities.
As CANANICA is a completely volunteer-run organization, Project PDTC’s modest budget of $3000 CAN is in no part inflated by administrative expenses. Props and costumes, transportation for participants, lunches for our workshops, and compensation for group mentors will compose the bulk of our expenditures. As such, every $20, $50, or $100 is a substantial contribution that will benefit Nicaraguan youth and communities directly and go a long way towards realizing this vibrant new project. Contributions can be made by PayPal using this link:
or by cheque to: Marc Serpa Francoeur, 403 Oakside Circle, Calgary, AB, T2V4P1. Please write to cananicaorg@gmail.com with any questions or for other payment options.
With CANANICA still in the process of registration with the Canadian government, tax-deductible receipts will be issued to donors if appropriate as soon as our charitable status has been approved. A final financial breakdown of Project PDTC’s budget will be posted here on CANANICA’s website following its conclusion for the year. More pictures, videos and updates will be posted over the coming months.
The immense potential of Project PDTC to change lives and inspire future leaders is already evident in the enthusiasm and commitment of its participants. On behalf of all the girls and boys, mentors and future audiences of Project PDTC, I thank you in advance for your support and ask you to please share this opportunity with friends and family.
Marc Serpa Francoeur, President & Founder, CANANICA
or by cheque to: Marc Serpa Francoeur, 403 Oakside Circle, Calgary, AB, T2V4P1.
