Mireille, a puppeteer from France, worked with the children to teach puppetry. The sessions were held on Sundays and sometimes during our summer camp. In this class, students were learned to make their own puppets using art paper and sticks. They had so much fun drawing the characters and painting them. The main theme of the puppet show was a part of the Ramayana, where … [Read more...] about Puppet theatre with Mereille
Art
Travelling Korean Arts: “A Tree and a Boy” (Non-Verbal Puppet Theatre)
At Thamarai, we have puppet-making and puppeting activities with our volunteer Mireille on weekends. With technology taking over, we wanted to bring puppetry back and show young people how it’s done by making and using our own puppets. This activity helped students build confidence, foster a love for theater, and improve their English since the class was taught in English. The … [Read more...] about Travelling Korean Arts: “A Tree and a Boy” (Non-Verbal Puppet Theatre)
Craft Mela: A Celebration of Creativity and Tradition
Craft Mela, held in the heart of Auroville, is a vibrant celebration of artistry and tradition. This annual event brings together diverse crafts—handlooms, blacksmithing, coconut rope making, and more. It serves as a platform for children to learn alongside seasoned artisans, preserving endangered skills and embracing the rich heritage of craftsmanship. As modernity encroaches, … [Read more...] about Craft Mela: A Celebration of Creativity and Tradition
Breathing new life into the art of Street Theatre
by Gunavathi Indianostrum Theatre Pondicherry and Thamarai joined hands for the second time in six months to bring street theatre to Annai nagar and nearby villages. This play called Abimanyu is all about courage and overcoming challenges. Here is a report by youth facilitator Gunavathi who said “this is the first performance I have ever seen where three girls performed … [Read more...] about Breathing new life into the art of Street Theatre
Confidence, Unity, and Self-esteem through drama at Cripa
Every Soul Is Unique was a co-creative musical play that Thamarai children were invited to perform at Cripa with others from Auroville and surrounding areas in January. Fakeera, the creator, was moved to use the interplay of art, personal healing and spontaneous expression in a manner that would be a joyful opportunity for the children’s growth, using the medium of … [Read more...] about Confidence, Unity, and Self-esteem through drama at Cripa