WATA (pidgin English for Water) is a captivating stage play designed for families that highlights the power of community. Drawing from rich African mythologies and centering environmental stewardship, audiences are invited on a journey to discover the inspiring stories of real-life women heroes who fought for freedom. Through drama and humor, WATA places African history and culture center-forward and seeks to foster connections with the global Black Diaspora and indigenous communities.
Alongside the play's development, an educational toolkit is being crafted to address climate crisis challenges with practical solutions appropriate for young audiences. It seeks to use creative expression as a tool to challenge paternalistic, patriarchal and racist misrepresentations of history and promote values of courage, unity, and self-love.
Story Synopsis: When an unscrupulous leader sells the waters of the Nubiya River to a foreign company, two young heroes must fulfill an ancient prophesy and bring back home the water Orishas in order to save their community. The problem is, despite being twins, Oumou and Omar are at constant loggerheads. Will they be able to join forces in this epic quest to the world of their ancestors and save the last oasis in Africa, or will their constant fighting also spell the end of this sacred land?
SDGs addressed through this project:
