Soul House Academy’s exclusive theatre workshop, in collaboration with Hill Theatre, Dimapur, concluded on April 17. The 10-day workshop aimed to enhance creativity, confidence and life skills in children through theatre.
The workshop was held under the guidance of director and theatre practitioner, Ustad Bismillah Khan Puraskar Awardee and National School of Drama Alumni, Bendang Walling. The 10-day program was designed to unlock the creative potential of young participants.
Bendang Walling, stated that drama in education embodies a holistic approach to learning. He emphasized that the goal is not just to include theatre in the curriculum but to integrate it into education itself.
Unlike traditional education, the new approach focuses on exploring the inner potential of each child, where theatre plays a vital role. Walling added that the energy and motivation he derives from working with children was inspired by observing them, which shapes his approach to the craft of action.
Soul House Academy, Principal and Administrator Arenla Lemtur, shared that Paatal Lok reconnected her to the director of Hill Theatre. She mentioned that the school started a Drama Club this year and plans to hold an annual production.
Lemtur emphasized that she wants teachers to also have eye-opening experiences. The goal of the workshop was to help students rediscover themselves, express their creativity, and use their imagination. Lemtur further stated that this exposure was invaluable and that she couldn’t have chosen a better person than Bendang Walling to help achieve this.
The workshop featured a variety of activities, including ice-breaking games, imagination exercises, improvisation, emotional awareness, and team-building exercises. These activities aimed to enhance life skills, boost confidence, and nurture creativity in the children. A total of 21 students participated in the workshop, and certificates were awarded by Hill Theatre, Nagaland.