In a world where traditional narratives often dictate our understanding of gender and identity, Gauri Baksi, a self-taught theatre practitioner, is on a mission to challenge these conventions. With over a decade of experience in the performing arts, Gauri has dedicated her career to creating impactful performances that resonate with audiences of all ages. Her latest project, "Breaking the Glass Slipper," aims to reimagine fairy tales through the lens of gender fluidity and inclusivity, fostering a more accepting environment for children and young people.
The Power of Storytelling
Gauri's journey into theatre began with a passion for storytelling. As the founder of Footlight Theater, she has created a space where imagination knows no bounds. Her work focuses on addressing societal norms, gender roles, and stereotypes that often hinder self-expression and well-being. Through her performances, Gauri aims to bridge the gap between aspirational values and lived realities, empowering children to think beyond conventional identities.
Breaking the Glass Slipper Project
At the heart of Gauri's current initiative is the "Breaking the Glass Slipper" project. This transformative endeavour seeks to challenge the traditional narratives found in fairy tales, encouraging children to explore their identities without the constraints of societal expectations. By reimagining these stories, Gauri hopes to instil a sense of empowerment in young audiences, allowing them to embrace their uniqueness and express themselves freely.
The project extends its impact beyond the stage, aiming to foster discussions in classrooms and curriculums about discrimination and bullying faced by children with non-normative gender identities. Gauri believes that by introducing queer literature and performing inclusivity practices in education, we can create a more accepting society for future generations.
Personal Experiences and Insights
Gauri's commitment to inclusivity is deeply rooted in her personal experiences. Throughout her life, she has faced moments of exclusion and bullying, which have shaped her understanding of the importance of safe spaces. One particularly moving story involves working with a child who had a rare disease. Despite the challenges, Gauri and her team created an inclusive environment where every child could participate and shine, regardless of their abilities. This experience reinforced her belief in the power of theatre to bring people together and foster empathy.
The Role of Performing Arts in Education
Gauri emphasizes that performing arts can transform learning spaces by encouraging critical thinking and self-discovery. Unlike traditional education, which often follows a linear path, the arts allow for exploration and experimentation. By engaging with theatre, children can navigate their emotions and identities in a supportive environment, ultimately leading to greater self-awareness and acceptance.
Support the Project
As Gauri embarks on this ambitious project, she seeks support from publishers, schools, and organizations to help spread the message of inclusivity. By collaborating with like-minded individuals and institutions, she hopes to reach a wider audience and create lasting change in the way we perceive gender and identity.
In conclusion, "Breaking the Glass Slipper" is more than just a theatre project; it is a movement towards inclusivity and acceptance. Gauri Baksi's dedication to empowering children through storytelling serves as a powerful reminder of the impact the arts can have on our society. By challenging traditional narratives and fostering open discussions, we can create a world where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. Join Gauri on this journey and support the cause of inclusivity in theatre and education. Together, we can break the glass slipper and pave the way for a more accepting future.
Watch or listen to Gauri on the India Career Centre Podcast.
Show Links:
YouTube: https://bit.ly/GauriBakshi
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3BWIkBj
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3YR5fHp
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3VW5RJx
Audible: https://bit.ly/4gwrnwz
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