VIDYA

VIDYA was formed in 2000 with the purpose of training sixteen slum dwellers as a professional company of performers, educators, political activists, and workshop leaders. This has provided permanent employment and valuable skills to these individuals, as well as facilitate their ability to promote critical consciousness and practical solutions within their own communities and beyond. In working towards these goals, the company has been guided by the very influential theatrical methodology developed by Brazilian director Augusto Boal and his pedagogy of Forum Theatre. In starting its work in the slums of Ahmedabad, VIDYA had to first launch an extensive research project (in collaboration with local NGOs) in order to establish which communities would benefit most from the company's work. VIDYA's initial research (funded by the British Lottery) focused on gathering statistical data that detailed the socio-economic status of local women, as well as a spectrum of issues relevant to those..

Primary location: Ahmedabad India