Members of the Youth Advocates through Theater Arts (YATTA) trooped to Bayawan City Dec. 12 to perform short pieces inculcating positive values and exploring issues such as bullying, discrimination, and hurtful acts.
The audiences were children in conflict with the law (CICL) who had been participating in a series of integrated theater arts activities throughout the year that aim to harness the children’s creative potentials and give them an alternative form of education as well as venue for expression and teamwork.
This innovative program is organized by the local government of Bayawan through its Department of Social Welfare & Development.
In its most recent installment in the workshop series from Dec. 12-14, the artist-trainors focused on the theme of Christmas.
“We want the children to appreciate the Christmas story, the birth of Jesus Christ in very difficult circumstances of poverty, persecution and rejection. And yet, the child Jesus grew up to be a person who championed love, peace, and compassion. This is a very powerful testimony that we hope could inspire the kids,” said YATTA president Earnest Hope Tinambacan.
The children showcased their talents through producing tie-dye shirts and Christmas cards, singing carols, creating a song about their hopes, and creating images about what makes them happy during this season.