22 May 2015

Solomons theatre group to perform in Europe

7:52 am on 22 May 2015

A Solomon Islands theatre group that works to empower women to break down taboos around gender-based violence is bringing their series to a European audience.

Stages of Change in performance

Stages of Change in performance Photo: SUPPLIED / Faanati Mamea

Stages of Change was a two year project that took on 14 women from across Solomon Islands, most of whom had never acted before, and gave them skills to fight domestic violence through acting.

Next week, six members of that group will travel to Belgium for the European Union Developmen Lab Days to perform their work after receiving EU funding.

The group's leader, Rhian Sanau, says this will be the first time a women's group from Solomon Islands would have performed in Europe.

"We're making history for Solomon Islands women, so this is a big thing for us. I never thought of this group going this far."

Ms Sanau says the Stages of Change group have now formed their own NGO, and will travel through Fiji to perform on their way to Brussels.

Members of the Stages of Change group, with artist director Nina Nawalowalo

Members of the Stages of Change group, with artist director Nina Nawalowalo Photo: SUPPLIED / Faanati Mamea