Another Week Beyond – 2315

Dear friends,

After a performance at the Esplanade in 2019 to mark our 50th Anniversary, our community theatre took a short break that turned into a rather long one because of COVID-19.  Hence, we were thrilled when a young person from the programme took the lead last August to revive it with new members and some volunteers skilled in theatre craft. The group is aiming to launch its first forum theatre performance by the end of May even though they don’t have a name for the show yet.

Inspired by the efforts of young people addressing the issue of sexual violence at the Whampoa neighbourhood, the Community Theatre set out to get another neighbourhood talking about the issue. Apart from honing their acting skills, members have been knocking on doors to ask their neighbours, “Have you or someone you know ever felt unsafe?” The question was intentionally vague to trigger clarifications that get a conversation going. They reckoned that the mention of sexual violence at the onset would be too intrusive, and the conversation would end even before it starts.

These conversations surfaced stories, concerns and other relevant information that shaped the storyline and its dialogue. They also created awareness of the community theatre, its purpose, and the upcoming show among those interviewed. For members of the community theatre, it was realising that acting was not just about remembering lines but to put up a convincing show, one had to have a deeper appreciation of issues that affected the characters they were playing. 

Last week after several rounds of discussion, the group agreed on a script for their upcoming performance. 5 youths were so proud of their achievement that they enthusiastically showed it to friends who were studying at the community centre. They interrupted the study session and asked their friends for feedback on the storyline. Their friends did not have much to say but it did not take away their sense of achievement as they repeatedly emphasised that it was their script.

A volunteer who was with them reflected that the moment showed her how important it is to have an experience of success.  Not just these young people but all of us need to know that we are good at something. In her view, they have picked up some acting skills and she resolved that she will be more affirming of their abilities at the next practice. 

For peace, community, and affirmation,

Gerard

Turn your face toward the sun and the shadows fall behind you. — Maori saying

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PAST AWB POSTS

2443 – Why Do You Work?

I was visiting Meelah, a resident who has led food drives and many social activities to enhance the wellbeing of her neighbours.   I listened intently, as she expressed her concern for families that would require assistance. I was   touched that she continued to keep track of so many lives in spite of her own declining health. She donned on the new spectacles she had recently afforded and checked her reflection using her phone before looking at me expectantly for a response. “How? I look like a teacher or not?” She exclaimed while tucking some strands of hair behind her ears.

Read more >

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Every morning, like clockwork, four-year-old Lisa (not her real name) stops by her neighbour’s flat on her way to preschool. She stands at the gate, waiting patiently to say “Hello” to the elderly man who lived there. Known for his stern demeanour and habit of scolding noisy children, this Uncle wasn’t someone most would approach. At first, he ignored her. Undeterred, she stands there, day after day, offering her simple greeting. Then one day, something changed. The Uncle returned her greeting. Soon after, they began sharing quiet moments – sitting together, eating biscuits, and watching TV —always under the watchful

Read more >

2441 – Looking for Treasure not Dirt

As a community worker, I knock on doors to introduce myself and to explore how residents may contribute toward the wellbeing of their neighbourhood.  By chatting with them, I discover their talents, aspirations and values. Of course, not everyone talks to me when I knock but it is always so rewarding when they do. Last week, I met 98-year-old Madam Wong and her son who is in his 70s. I learnt that Madam Wong shares her art and craft skills with the older residents in her community.  What she enjoys doing most and is really good at is “weaving” together

Read more >