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This ‘On the Ground’ podcast episode explores insights from the Summit of the Future, an initiative by the United Nations to reform global governance and implement sustainable development goals.

• The Summit of the Future aimed to address pathways for reforming the UN Charter and achieving sustainable development goals but faced critique for insufficient grassroots involvement.

• Despite challenges in civil society representation, there were notable documents adopted, like the Pact of the Future and the Global Digital Compact, aiming at equitable internet access and consideration for future generations.

• Global NGO Executive Committee Website: GNEC

• World Yoga Community: https://www.worldyogacommunity.org

• League of Women Voters: https://www.lwv.org

• Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues: https://www.spssi.org

• International Federation on Aging: https://www.ifa.ngo

In this enlightening episode, Adriane interviews two remarkable figures in mission-driven theatre—Joanna Sherman co-founder and Artistic Director of Bond Street Theatre and Michael McGuigan Managing Director of Bond Street Theatre and an accomplished performer.

With a history dating back to 1977, Bond Street Theatre utilizes the arts as a powerful medium for social justice across the globe. Joanna and Michael share their experiences in transforming communities through performance, often venturing into refugee camps, rural villages, and conflict zones to deliver impactful, message-driven theatre.

Throughout the episode, Joanna and Michael delve into the challenges and rewards of their unique form of theatre. They discuss their creative process, highlighting how they partner with local communities to produce performances that resonate deeply with their audiences. The conversation also touches on the logistics of sustaining such an ambitious program, from securing funding through U.S. embassies and NGOs to adapting to technological advances. Key topics include notable projects in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and South Africa, and their adaptive strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Takeaways:

• Theatre as a Voice for Justice: Bond Street Theatre uses performance art to address social justice issues in over 60 countries, shaping performances that resonate with local audiences.
• Community Engagement: Projects are driven by community needs, with local participants often contributing stories and solutions that are then staged as performances.
• Sustaining Efforts: Success hinges on forming enduring relationships with funding bodies like U.S. embassies and adapting proposals to highlight the measurable impact of their work.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Despite challenges like political instability and pandemics, Bond Street Theatre continues to thrive by adapting its strategies and leveraging technology where possible.
• Long-Term Impact: Beyond immediate performances, the organization’s work often results in long-lasting community engagement and empowerment, evident in their projects' ongoing influence.

Resources:

• Bond Street Theatre – Official website for more information on their global initiatives.
• Contact Bond Street Theatre via Email: info@bondst.org

Immerse yourself in the full episode to discover how Bond Street Theatre uses the transformative power of the arts to drive social change worldwide.