Peace Behind the Masks
Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:21:00

CHAN:
Conflicts are usually solved these days through politics and diplomacy. Our next story is about a slightly different way to bring about peace. Here is more from our Israeli correspondent.

STORY:
The Arcobaleno-Rainbow Theatre Group uses the universal language of music and dance to convey their message. Their play "Beresheet" is a call for peace, tolerance and mutual respect.

Edna Angelica Calò Livné is the group's inspirational founder and artistic director. She believes people can use art and theatre to positively influence the society in which they live.

[Edna Angelica Calò Livné, Founder and Artistic Director]:
“The most important massage that we can give now to all the humanity is that difference is the richness, that dialog is so important now for everybody, not only for us in Israel. This is now the imperative, I think.”

The prevalent element of the performance is the mask.

[Edna Angelica Calò Livné, Founder and Artistic Director]:
“If you know take off your mask, you can be together.”

The actors are boys and girls from towns and villages in the Galilee, in the north of Israel. They include Arabs and Jews, Druze and Circassians, religious and secular…
all with one vision.

[Roni Windholz, Actor of the show]:
“We want that people will start to understand the responsibility we have as human beings, especially in Israel, the Holy Land. If here everybody can live together, so why not in other places.”

The performance takes place at the Arab-Hebrew Theatre of Jaffa… a city where Jews and Arabs live side by side.

Many who watch the show are deeply touched.

[Mary Jane Cohen, Spectator]:
“There is a hope for the peace, and to open mind, to welcome to the people, especially to the needy people. Congratulations for the very good show. “

The show's organizers and actors share a hope to touch more peoples’ hearts and contribute to a better future.

NTD Israel   source : http://english.ntdtv.com/?c=154&a=5791