The Freedom Theatre’s work with children and youth stems from the Care and Learning project initiated by Arna Mer Khamis during the first Intifada in the late 1980s. Many of the young people who participated in these activities later continued in The Freedom Theatre and are today leading activities for new generations. Read more about The Freedom Theatre’s legacy.
In the activities for the young in our community, we put much emphasis on play and creating a safe space as a foundation for children and youth to be free to express themselves creatively and strengthened in their ability to deal with difficulties in life. We work with children from an early age through our playschool and after-school activities, nurturing the joyfulness and freedom that children have within them. Theatre clubs are offered for youth, who are later able to join our professional theatre trainings. We also offer pedagogical training to those who meet young people in their profession, thereby building capacity to increase the quality of educational and leisure activities provided to children in our area.
When I grew up in Jenin Refugee Camp, theatre was an unknown concept. Now there is one in our neighbourhood. The children grow up with The Freedom Theatre. In my opinion they are the most important audience to us. If we can find a solution to their problems through theatre, we will indirectly find the beginning of a solution to our society’s problems. These children are the generation that will lead the country one day.” Ahmad Al Rokh, graduate of The Freedom Theatre School, actor and theatre instructor
Ongoing theatre workshops form one cornerstone of the Child & Youth program. The aim of the theatre clubs is to promote the participant’s imagination and creativity. At the end of each term, relatives and friends of the participants are invited to see their children perform, thereby involving the families in the activities.
When I grew up in Jenin Refugee Camp, theatre was an unknown concept. Now there is one in our neighbourhood. The children grow up with The Freedom Theatre. In my opinion they are the most important audience to us. If we can find a solution to their problems through theatre, we will indirectly find the beginning of a solution to our society’s problems. These children are the generation that will lead the country one day.” Ahmad Al Rokh, graduate of The Freedom Theatre School, actor and theatre instructor
The Freedom Theatre offers daycare for children aged 0-5. The activities are based on a unique pedagogy of play and creativity, where learning takes place in a natural pace, through children’s innate curiosity to explore the world around them. The children are listened to and feel safe to express themselves, knowing that their opinions will be valued and respected. Our daycare offers a safe and joyful environment that enables the children to remain curious to learn and to grow throughout their lives!
The daycare is open from 7:30 to 15:30, Sunday to Thursday. Groups of children are small, maximum six children per facilitator. Nutritious, home-cooked and sugar-free meals are provided three times a day. Three times a week trips are made to nearby forests and playgrounds.
In November 2016, The Freedom Theatre initiated a one-year specialised training program in early childhood education with a focus on creativity and play. Read more about the program.