“Hellwach” Festival Offers Discounted Access to Thought-Provoking Performance

The 11th International Theater Festival for young audiences, “Hellwach,” is set to provide unforgettable theatrical experiences, with a special focus on accessibility for school children. A highlight of the festival is the Compagnie Djarama’s production, Small Piece of Wood (Petit Bout de Bois), a poignant portrayal of street children in Senegal.

A Glimpse into the Lives of senegal’s “Talibés”

On May 22nd, the Heinz-Hilpert-Theater in Lünen will host two showings of Small Piece of Wood at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. This compelling performance, suitable for audiences aged 8 and up, uses puppetry to explore the lives of the Talibés – children living on the streets of Dakar who beg for alms. Mamby Mawine, the Senegalese artist behind Compagnie Djarama, crafts dolls from wood and tin cans to bring these stories to life.

The Senegalese artist Mamby Mawine brings the dreams and nightmares of the street children to the stage in Senegal. With dolls made of wood and tin cans, she tells the moving history of the “Talibés” that live in the streets of Dakar and ask for alms. This lively and touching show shows the vitality and courage of these children and lets the audience immerse themselves in their world.

The play, performed in French with German translation, runs for approximately 45 minutes.it aims to showcase the resilience and spirit of these children, offering audiences a window into their world.

Mayor Harzer Foundation Subsidy reduces Ticket Costs for schools

Thanks to the Mayor Harzer Foundation’s support, school classes can attend Small Piece of wood for a significantly reduced price of €3 per student, instead of the usual €8. This subsidy reflects the foundation’s commitment to making culturally enriching experiences accessible to young people, particularly when the subject matter addresses important social issues.

Supporting Arts Education: The Broader Impact

Initiatives like the Mayor Harzer Foundation’s subsidy are crucial in fostering arts education. Studies consistently show that exposure to the arts enhances critical thinking, creativity, and empathy in children. By lowering the financial barrier to entry, more students can benefit from these enriching experiences.

The “Hellwach” theater festival itself receives funding from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia’s Ministry of Culture and Science, highlighting the government’s recognition of the importance of arts and culture in education and community development.

Event Details and Ticket information

“Small piece of wood (Petit Bout de Bois)”

Thursday, May 22nd, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
For everyone from 8 years
Compagnie Djarama (Senegal)
Duration: 45 minutes
Language: French with German translation
Admission: €3 for school classes (subsidized)

Tickets for the Lünen events can be purchased at the Lünen cultural office (entrance Hansesaal), Kurt-Schumacher-Str. 41, 44532 Lünen; Telephone 02306 104-2299. Please note that only cash payments are accepted.