A group of Peruvian actors with Down syndrome is performing Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” at the Barbican Theatre in London, challenging societal barriers and promoting inclusivity. This initiative, initiated by actor Jaime Cruz seven years ago, showcases the actors’ talents and serves as a form of resistance against prejudice. With upcoming performances worldwide, the initiative aims to inspire change and acceptance.
In London, a remarkable group of Peruvian actors with Down syndrome is challenging societal norms through their performance of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” at the Barbican Theatre. The show, running until Sunday, features eight talented individuals, including Cristina Leon, Jaime Cruz, and Manuel Garcia, who are determined to demonstrate that inclusion can be a reality in the arts.
“This play shows that we can be included in everything at work, and in education. There are no barriers, we can do lots of things, and people must open their eyes to the fact that we can do anything they ask us,” Leon declared. The initiative, which kicked off seven years ago, was born when Cruz, working as an usher at Teatro La Plaza in Lima, decided to pursue his dream of acting.
“I have always wanted to be an actor. One day there was an event where you had to introduce yourself, and I said my name and said I was an actor,” Cruz shared. This ambition caught the attention of the theatre’s artistic director, Chela de Ferrari, who adapted the script to fit the unique ensemble, bringing it to the birthplace of Shakespeare.
After an engaging meeting, de Ferrari envisioned Cruz as Hamlet, leading to a casting call that brought together seven other performers. She later reflected, “Jaime made me face my own prejudices, my deep ignorance about the reality. I think what the public experiences mirrors exactly what happened to me.”
Having toured extensively, including a sold-out run at the Edinburgh International Festival, the group is now set to perform in Brighton and across 35 cities globally, from Seoul to New York, acting in Spanish with subtitles for non-Spanish speakers.
Garcia emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “In today’s society everyone puts up limits. They tell us all the time that we cannot do things.” He and de Ferrari see their production as a form of resistance against growing attacks on values of diversity. “Instead of rejecting people who have speech problems or stutter, we embrace this diversity,” she concluded proudly.
In summary, this production of “Hamlet” showcases the impressive talent of actors with Down syndrome, spotlighting their fight against stigma and exclusion in society. With performances set to take place in multiple cities around the world, this group not only entertains but also serves as a powerful symbol for inclusivity and resilience in the arts.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com