Programs
I perform because it is safe. I am safe here. And I believe I can help others be safe through performance.
Drama Program
ImprovED: Youth Workshops
Our program utilizes a unique improvisation technique that provides students a stage to rehearse critical moments in their young adolescent lives: deciding to become sexually active, having safe sex, getting tested for HIV/AIDS, caring for a loved one who is dying, confronting a friend who is using drugs, and other relevant topics. This interactive approach creates a learning environment in which students take to the stage to find creative solutions to the challenges in their lives.
TRIAD’s Performing Arts staff trains a troupe of local actors, musicians, and Medical Educators to implement an age-appropriate and community-tailored program. By working within schools and in after-school groups over a 10-week period, the troupe acts as Performance Facilitators and introduces information each week with songs, improvisational role playing, discussion, and finally a collaborative performance scene. The regular presence of the troupe members creates a comfort and trust amongst the youth that only comes with consistency– something too many of these children don’t have elsewhere. 
ImprovED is the core educational component for sports leagues started by TRIAD-trained leaders; it is also the South African Education Ministry-sanctioned life-skills curriculum in an increasing number of public high schools. After training with TRIAD’s Director of Performing Arts and Director of Medical Education, an ImprovED troupe is equipped to facilitate ongoing school- or field-based interactive workshops. Using song, improvisational techniques, and real-world scenarios, ImprovED facilitators get kids out of their seats and up on their feet learning essential life skills and honing decision-making. Topics covered are culturally relevant, ranging from puberty and reproductive health to sexual abuse, and other subjects related to the transmission of HIV. The age-appropriate curricula also examine life skills such as self esteem, goal-setting, decision-making, and drug and alcohol abuse. ImprovED acts as a rehearsal for life for all program participants. TRIAD-certified, village-based Medical Educators continue to reinforce and elaborate on those core lessons after participants complete ImprovED workshops. These MEs serve as reliable resources and role models for participants, and strive to nurture trusting relationships with the orphans and vulnerable children with whom they work.
Writing & Performance Workshops for Actors
TRIAD’s professional actors, writers, and directors spend time learning about traditions and community needs before even meeting with the aspiring performers.
From warm-ups to curtains down, we work with local drama groups to help them create cultural and educational performances for vulnerable children, members of the community, and tourists alike. The income generated by performing for tourists funds the HIV/AIDS education and outreach programs at schools, churches, and festivals. By weaving traditional and modern themes, audiences learn about local culture and HIV/AIDS in soaring musicals and hilarious comedies.
