Storytelling is an art which can transform any situation and mindset by transferring one to different realms of creativity, fantasy and even enchantment. It is no wonder, hence, that this tool is used not only as a therapeutic but also as a didactic tool.
The components of effective storytelling not only include content, but also depiction and presentation, including powerful portrayal through strong verbal and non-verbal skills.
One such life-changing experience was a storytelling programme organised by the Korean Cultural Centre for students of Sujata Academy, an NGO school for underprivileged students in Dhungeshwari, Bihar. The performance, in collaboration with ASSITEJ (International Association of Theatre for Children) India, was a dramatisation of three fairy tales from Korea: ‘Mr Moon and Miss Sun’, ‘Faithful Daughter Sim Cheong’ and ‘The Woodcutter and Heavenly Maiden’, which have been introduced to 10,263 Indian students in 2015. It was the first time that the production was taken outside the National Capital Region. The event saw the participation of 830 students from Upper Kindergarten to Class 8.
The stories conveyed messages of morality and duty, while enchanting children with the depictions of heaven, the dragon king and the tiger, and the varied costumes of the artists. Three professional artists of ASSITEJ India enthusiastically and energetically presented the tales to the students.
“It may be a life-time experience for children living in this culturally disadvantaged area”, said Shabi, General Manager of JTS India. Praising the organisation of such events, Principal of Sujata Academy, Miss Priyanka, said that the artistes had ‘swept the children away’ by their performances and that they would like to have many more such storytelling workshops, where students could learn more about Korea.
Korean Cultural Centre India has been running a partnership programme with Indian schools to introduce Korea and Korean culture through diverse programs since 2013. Kim KumPyoung, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre India, accentuated the role of the centre as a cultural bridge between India and Korea, with the objective of reaching out to all sections of society across the length and breadth of India.