PHILIPSBURG--The community theatre foundation Behind the Beyond recently received funding from the Dutch Representation on St Maarten VNP to continue its post-Hurricane Irm emotional relief activities.
The funds has helped the group get new props and technical equipment to replace those damaged in the hurricane and to secure a new location to rehearse and perform.
Albina Matuzko of Behind the Beyond said: “I'm very glad that in these difficult times the Dutch Representation has invested money in arts and culture, which serves the communities of St. Maarten. We started with preparations of our activities right after Irma, but without this financial support it would be not possible to do what we planned.”
The emphasis of the group is on emotional recovery of community after the devastation of Hurricane Irma, by bringing laughter and entertainment to schools and communities. They also restarted drama classes for children and adults. The children classes are free until Christmas and are held in St Dominic High School.
The foundation is also active in the Clowns without Borders (CWB) initiative and has invited this group to St Maarten. That visit will take place will from November 26 to December 7. CWB brings laughter, healing and joy into schools, senior citizens homes and devastated districts for all who can use a little bit of joy or just personal attention.
Behind the Beyond had also developed a special theatre production for seven primary schools for St. Maarten Day. The show “YES I CAN!” is a clownish comedy that brought motivation and self-esteem into these schools. The goal was post Irma emotional relief through laughter, lightness and spectacle. The cast comprised Nascha Kagie, Caroline van Oost, Raphael Dorra and Matuzko.
Interested in the booking the Clowns Without Borders, participate in drama classes for children or to join Theatre Lab, e-mail [email protected].
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/71119-beyond-the-beyond-gets-funding-for-continued-emotional-relief-work
