A group of Peruvian actors with Down syndrome performed ‘Hamlet’ at London’s Barbican, tackling stereotypes and barriers head-on. Led by Jaime Cruz’s vision, the cast aims to spread a message of inclusion through theatre, touring internationally while proving that barriers can be overcome.
LONDON, UK – A group of Peruvian actors with Down syndrome is taking on Shakespeare in a powerful new way. Last week, they performed “Hamlet” at the Barbican centre, tackling the play’s famous line, “To be or not to be?” and confronting stereotypes head-on.
The eight-member cast includes Cristina Leon, Jaime Cruz, and Manuel Garcia. Leon, 32, expressed the message of their performance, stating, “This play shows… there are no barriers, that we can do lots of things, and people must open their eyes to the fact that we can do anything they ask us.”
The initiative began seven years ago when Cruz, then an usher at Teatro La Plaza in Lima, decided he wanted to become an actor. He had always viewed his Down syndrome as a non-issue. “I have always wanted to be an actor. One day there was an event (at the Lima theater) in which you had to introduce yourself, and I said my name and said I was an actor,” shared Cruz, 30, in an interview.
Cruz’s determination inspired the theatre’s artistic director, Chela de Ferrari, who adapted the play for the group. “He really caught my attention… I had a vision of him wearing the prince’s crown,” she said. This marked a significant shift in how these stories can be told on stage, diving deeper into the characters’ complexities.
A casting call later brought together seven other performers, making this cast unique. De Ferrari reflected on her journey, stating, “Jaime made me face my own prejudices, my deep ignorance about the reality.”
Three years back, the troupe toured Spain, which marked a turning point in their journey. Their performance at last year’s Edinburgh International Festival was a hit, even earning accolades from The Guardian, which described it as an alluring mix of charm and imagination.
De Ferrari noted, “I don’t think it’s the only play with actors with Down syndrome, but I don’t think other groups have traveled as much.”
This year, the group will perform not only in Brighton but also in various other cities like Seoul, Melbourne, Toronto, New York, and Chicago. They perform in Spanish, using subtitles in other languages for non-Spanish speaking audiences.
Garcia, 32, addressed society’s limiting beliefs, stating, “In today’s society, everyone puts up limits. They tell us all the time that we cannot do things.” He and the team view their work as a form of resistance against prejudice.
“We embrace this diversity,” said de Ferrari proudly, highlighting the importance of acceptance and inclusion in today’s world.
Despite the obstacles, the group continues to break barriers in the performing arts. As they tour globally, they hope to inspire others and elevate discussions on diversity and ability in all areas of life.
The Peruvian actors with Down syndrome are not just performing Shakespeare; they’re breaking down barriers and reshaping perceptions of disability in theatre. Their artistry and message of resilience are resonating globally. With a packed schedule ahead, they aim to inspire audiences across the world, proving that inclusion is a powerful narrative that must be shared.
Original Source: www.philstar.com