Diverse networks
For two years, Jan Mayer came to the Frankfurt Matrix programme to present one of the challenges he is facing as head of the Frankfurt International Theater and to invite participants to put themselves into his shoes as theater manager.
“Following my experience with such diverse groups every year, I felt the urge to use this network. I wanted to develop a project that would bring into my theater the international children and their parents from one of the inner city schools, as one of the engaged teachers was here with me at Common Purpose.
"I approached a well-known theatre and dance educationalist to inquiry whether she was willing to teach children in this elementary school to perform on his stage. She spotted the opportunity for an interesting project to research to what extent dancing and performing can enhance the self-esteem of immigrant children.
"Eventually, funding was raised by a foundation, a bank and the City of Frankfurt, all part of the network of Common Purpose Frankfurt. For half a year, 20 children, age 6-10, met weekly in their school for rehearsals until the performance was staged at the theater before a large international crowd in my theater.
"As a result, the instructor, Sheelagh Maythem, observed that children can be helped to develop a sense of focus and responsibility, will power to see something through and further tools to express themselves. The performances were a delight, not only for the children but also for their teachers and their parents.”
