El Salvador: Theatre against violence

El Salvador still suffers from the consequences of the civil war that ended in 1991. In the Chalatenago region, violence, kidnapping, and drugs are the prevailing problems. Many young people seek their fortune in the United States or join criminal gangs.

The Tiempos Nuevos Teatro (TNT) initiative aims to counter the violence in Chalatenenago. Artistic activities are one method for reducing violent conflicts. Through dance and theater classes, children and young people learn alternative forms of conflict resolution and engage with current issues such as equality, respect, and children's and human rights. Several hundred children and young people from impoverished communities in the region attend the courses. They are intended to become active in their communities as multipliers for a non-violent and open civil society with cultural and political participation. 

TNT has existed since the 1990s. Its particular focus is on the artistic education of young people through theatre. In addition, TNT is committed to human rights and education in the economically disadvantaged north of the country. With its work, TNT has garnered national and international attention: the organization is considered a benchmark for human rights advocacy in the region. The TNT acting school has also become renowned – several former students have successfully transitioned to professional companies.

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