Ubuntu strives for a world in which any child feels welcome and can develop into a strong individual. We want to improve the perspective of street children in co-operation with our project partners in developing countries. To achieve this, we use the power of theatre to give the children their pride and self esteem back, to improve the position and basis of the partnering organisations and to create more involvement and a sense of responsibility in the child’s community. At the same time, we strengthen the basis for development aid in the Netherlands in a creative way.
Vision
Every child, anywhere in the world, has a right to protection, development and survival. Ubuntu believes in theatre, creativity and inspiration as
powerful tools to achieve this goal.
- Making street children aware of their talents and qualities
- Increasing self esteem and confidence in street children
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Raising awareness and increasing involvement in the children’s surroundings regarding their well-being
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Improving the capacity and foundation of local partner organisations that provide shelter for street children
Method
During a three-month period a theatrical performance is created with the children in co-operation with organisation providing shelter. This performance relates directly to the children’s environment in its theme. Finally, the show is performed on squares and in parks: the street is the theatre and entrance is free for the community. During the creation of the show the project partner is trained in a theatrical didactic method, to ensure that after the project the partner can continue to work with theatre. 
If possible, local artists are also involved with the project, so that they can transfer their skill to the country’s next generation.
Who are we?
Marieke de Lange and Renske Hofman, both playwrights, founded Ubuntu Theatre Organisation in 2006. Marieke graduated in 2005 from the Amsterdam School of Arts as a theatre teacher. After her studies she travelled to Namibia to create a theatrical performance with 40 students. On returning to the Netherlands it was decided to call Ubuntu to life with 
Renske, who graduated as a drama teacher in 1998. During the following projects in Namibia and Kenya Marieke came in contact with local street kids, and a show was created with them as well. This yielded excellent results for the involved children. Gradually Renske and Marieke decided to dedicate their work entirely to street children. Now they both make a full-time effort to ensure the execution of many more theatre projects.
