Theatre, as an art form, took a few significant steps away from the formal stage and waded into the therapeutic arena, with the Serendipity Arts Festival’s (SAF) unique ‘Serendipity Out and About’ programme conducting an ‘Expressive Arts Therapy’ workshop for the residents of the Amazing Grace Home for the Aged in Guirim.
The initiative is aimed at introducing the arts and cultural engagement to the lives of elderly residents of such homes, schools, orphanages, etc., offering them a stimulating and enriching break from their routine.
Facilitated by Charvi Budhdeo, an expressive arts therapist, the workshop at the Guirim home for the aged, was meticulously designed to cater to the specific needs of the elderly, ensuring accessibility and encouraging participation.
Budhdeo, who has collaborated with the SAF for the first time, said that bringing theatre and the arts to orphanages, schools, old age homes and engaging with the community in Goa is a “beautiful thing”.
“It gives this certain depth to the arts festival that is going to happen at the end of this year,” said the expressive arts practitioner.
The importance of SAF bringing theatre and arts to various community centres, including orphanages, government schools, and old age homes across Goa, lies in ensuring grassroots-level engagement that enhances the festival and strengthens the community’s cultural fabric.
Budhdeo highlighted that making art accessible to everyone is crucial. “Art must be accessible to everyone. By sharing our skills and engaging with the local community, SAF reinforces the belief that art should be an inclusive experience,” emphasised Budhdeo, who holds a master’s degree from Switzerland’s European Graduates School in Expressive Arts Therapy.
The therapy offers numerous benefits for the elderly. It encourages creative engagement, stimulates cognitive functions, and provides a platform for self-expression beyond mere skillfulness. As Budhdeo pointed out, art has always been integral to humanity’s celebrations, mourning and rituals. Engaging in artistic activities helps the elderly tap into different neural pathways, keeping them alert and active.
“It keeps them alert, it keeps them active and it generally helps them engage in something that enables them to think differently and connect with their child selves,” Budhdeo explained.
The response from the residents of Guirim’s Amazing Grace Home for the Aged was overwhelmingly positive.
Mary D’Costa, a 78-year-old resident of the home, loves spending her time knitting, but she found the ‘Expressive Arts Therapy’ workshop enjoyable.
“It was a lovely experience. I do knitting and all, but this was different and enjoyable. Yes, once in a year, you should have it again,” she said.
Each workshop session brought unique dynamics. Some groups engaged in intimate partner work, while others participated in larger activities, requiring different facilitation skills. Regardless of group size, the workshops consistently resulted in enthusiastic participation and a desire for more. Charvi noted that many residents, who typically experienced energy depletion within the first half-hour, remained engaged and energised for the entire two-hour sessions. This feedback underscored the profound impact of the workshops on the participants.
Edward Angelo Rodrigues, another resident, expressed his gratitude. “It was a very good experience and I enjoyed every bit of it,” Rodrigues said.
“For the elderly, who may face isolation and loneliness, participation in artistic activities can lead to increased socialisation and improved mental health. Moreover, it helps preserve cultural heritage and promotes intergenerational bonding within the community,” according to Josephine D’Souza, chairperson of the Guirim-based home for the aged.
The workshop featured a variety of activities, from seated movements using props like scarves and movement ribbon wands to simple guided art projects. These activities provided the elderly a medium to express their emotions, connect with their inner selves, and foster a sense of community. Soothing and upbeat music meticulously curated for the playlist created a supportive and engaging environment.
The ‘Serendipity Out and About’ programme at the Amazing Grace Home for the Aged effectively integrated expressive arts therapy into the residents’ lives, underscoring the significance of making art accessible to all in order to enhance the cultural fabric of Goa.
