School Day India, ASTEP at Shanti Bhavan
TAMIL NADU, India - On August 26th, 2007 ASTEP was privileged to be a part of an extraordinary event uniting the children from Shanti Bhavan with some of NewYork City's top Broadway professionals for The George Foundation’s 10th Anniversary celebration of School Day.
This event is a very special occasion for the children of Shanti Bhavan because, after months of hard work and preparation, it is the one day of the year where the children can perform for their community and their parents showing off their talents to those they love.
The children performed traditional dances as well as classical piano solos, musical medleys and poetry. They were joined on-stage by several ASTEP artists who also performed musical selections from some of Broadway’s most popular shows.
This was ASTEP’s first summer working in India. We sent 10 volunteers over the course of 3 months and elevated the ASTEP experience to new heights.
There was a major focus on using the arts to teach HIV prevention and awareness -- something that is in dire need throughout the country. ASTEP will continue to send volunteers to Shanti Bhavan year-round and we are very excited to see the partnership with The George Foundation grow and succeed in creating leaders for a new India.
The Children of Shanti Bhavan also have a new photoblog relating their everyday experiences, including their involvement with ASTEP members during School Day! Visit the blog here.