RAISE: Art-Based Holistic Development for Communities
Through our RAISE program, we use theatre, music, and dance to help children and community groups explore values and self-awareness. These large-scale, collaborative performances bring classical arts into the lives of students everywhere, from local schools to special needs academies.
An invitation to a RAISE theatre presentation, 'Vishwa Guru Bharata', by 100 students of a local school. This program, supported by corporate partners, uses art to instill values and self-awareness.
The poster for 'Shreshta Bharata', a RAISE theatre presentation by 400 students of a government model primary school. These large-scale productions empower children through performance.
Our RAISE program presenting 'Jnana', a theatre piece by 8th and 9th-grade students. Sponsored by endowments, these programs explore deep philosophical themes in an accessible way for young people.
The RAISE annual program presenting 'Bhakti', a theatre piece by students from 5th, 6th, and 7th grade. These performances are a celebration of the students' year-long journey in the arts.
An invitation to 'Shresta Bharatha', a dance drama presented by 100 students as part of our RAISE cultural festival. This event is held under the Sri Chandan Nambiar Memorial Programme.
A glimpse into our work with visually challenged artistes of Shree Ramana Maharishi Academy for the Blind. This video shows the rehearsal process for 'Shanthi - Shakthi, The Power of Peace', a dance drama on Mahatma Gandhi.
A special presentation for families, "Hap, Hap, Happily in Ramana thatha’s Ashram". This event, part of our RAISE initiative, invites parents and children to explore self-awareness together through dance, hasta stories, and song.
About RAISE: Art for Holistic Development
The RAISE initiative is a structured outreach program where we partner with schools to stage full-scale, value-based dance-dramas. It is not just a performance; it is a collaborative process where 100 to 400 students work together to tell stories rooted in Indian heritage. Whether it is a primary school production or a dance-drama featuring visually challenged artistes, these programs are designed to build confidence and community character through the practice of Indian classical arts.
Art as a Path to Self-Awareness
At the Ramana Maharshi Centre for Learning, we believe art is a fundamental tool for growth. Our RAISE (Ramana Art-form Interventions for Self-awareness and Excellence) program translates this belief into practice by taking our pedagogy out of the classroom and into the wider community.
How We Work
We collaborate with schools, trusts, and special needs organizations to design programs that fit their specific requirements. This process involves:
- Collaborative Theatre: We guide large groups of students—often ranging from 100 to 400 participants—in rehearsals, choreography, and storytelling.
- Value-Based Curriculum: Every production, such as 'Vishwa Guru Bharata' or 'Shanthi - Shakthi', is chosen to explore themes of peace, ethics, and cultural identity.
- Inclusive Participation: Our programs are inclusive by design, allowing students of all abilities and backgrounds to contribute to a shared artistic goal.
Impact on Learners
For many students, these theatre presentations are their first experience on a professional stage. The discipline required to prepare for a public showcase at our Heritage Auditorium helps children manage emotions, focus their attention, and work harmoniously in a team. By focusing on the 'Who am I?' inquiry even within our theatre pieces, we ensure that the end goal remains personal development rather than just technical skill.
If you are an educator or represent an organization interested in bringing these values-based theatre interventions to your students, we invite you to reach out and discuss how we might collaborate.
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