Puppetry is one of the ancient forms of entertainment in the world. Besides providing entertainment, this visual art form is also used for conveying meaningful messages. Puppetry is also a helpful tool for therapeutic purpose, especially for community that have undergone some trauma due to a disaster or a calamity.

Puppet shows filled with fun and entertainment bring happiness and cheer to both children and adults. So, Hope is Life Foundation has employed Dr. Bhanumathi, Pavai Centre for Puppetry, who has a degree in Puppetry, to rehabilitate the relationship to the sea and overcome sorrow of loss due to the tsunami.

Dr. Bhanumathi (left) is seen with Natascha Yogachandra

Dr. Bhanumathi conducted several workshops on “Puppetry for Communication” to the teachers at the daycare centers in Chennai and the surrounding areas of Tamil Nadu, India. Through such workshops, we intend to train the teachers in different types of puppet making, writing stories, scripts, manipulation and presentation with music and sound.

At the end of such training, teachers at the centers will be able to present puppet shows to complete the learning process. By this activity, the individual skills of children will be developed, which in turn will enhance their motivational levels to overcome the trauma and grief.

One of the helpers at the Day Care Centers is seen thanking Natascha for organizing the training programs