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CWIL Conference 2007 "Women as Intercultural Leaders: Collaboration at the Crossroads
Ishar Multicultural Centre for Women's Health
Perth, Australia
Present "Ran Away"
Ran Away is the story of almost every refugee woman. A story
of tribulation and achievement, of despair and hope. It is based on true
stories told to Ishar by the women they work with on a daily basis. Most
of the cast tonight have had no formal training in dance or drama. They
have volunteered their time for rehearsals, and pushed themselves to
confront the experience of going on-stage in public to bring this story
to you. Some of the cast has lived the story of Ran Away for themselves.
The 16 dancers represent diverse cultures from the Middle East, Iraq
and Iran, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. The central truth of
tonight's story is nobody chooses to be a refugee. Leaving home is a
painful and dangerous journey for every refugee. Ran Away depicts this
terrible
and life-changing journey.
The FIRST CHAPTER in "The Journey" depicts the multiple traumas that force people out of their homes making them run away from everything they know in a numbing desperation. The SECOND CHAPTER shows the heart-breaking process of confronting the decision to leave home and move away from all things known to face alienation, uncertainty and terror. In the THIRD CHAPTER, depicts the experience of the danger and despair that refugees face on their journey to a safe haven. The FOURTH CHAPTER describes the experience some have of life in a safe zone like a Tent City. It is here that refugees dwell awhile, sometimes a long, long while, in a limbo, where they wait for news of a final destination. They suffer boredom, uncertainty, and a terrible sense of displacement and disorientation. The FIFTH CHAPTER shows the arrival in a new country willing to accept them. It can feel a lot like arriving on planet Mars. It may not be the country of their choice. But that is the essence of being a refugee: they have no choice. In the SIXTH CHAPTER the reality of getting on with life and settling in learning the language is considered. Refugees must now re-establish roots and absorb a new culture -- and over time achieve tranquility and stability in life again.
We certainly hope this evocative dance drama will move you as well as add to your experience and understanding of a current and ongoing humanitarian issue as you return to your own safe and secure homes tonight.
More information about Ishar Multicultural Centre for Women's Health
© Ishar Multicultural Centre for Women's Health,
2005 All rights reserved.
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