If exaggeration helps in expressing oneself well, this medium is welcome. That too when it does well for less-privileged children! Mime, the theatrical technique of suggesting emotion using gestures, exaggerated expression, and movement without using words, is the new found fascination for a group of children with special needs, the differently-abled and those in orphanages. Thanks to Mime Gopi, who has introduced this art form to these children through his G-Mime Studio.
Studio training
G-Mime Studio has been training children from various ‘homes', special schools and individuals in this theatrical form and help them perform at shows. The recent one being a show by deaf and mute children in an event in an IT company. “They were so good that their impairment did not show,” he says, adding, “The children were trained to focus on the ‘count'.”
Ajith, a member of the Studio, recalls a show by children of Shelter Home, Ayanavaram. “They used to put up stalls in corporate events to market the products produced by them. They showcase their skills in miming, in addition, as a fund raising initiative.”
Mime Gopi says, “Besides getting acknowledged for their skills, the children can develop themselves in expressing their feelings, learning sign language, developing body language and behaviour. It also helps develop their confidence.”
Committed to a cause
G-Studio has been conducting mime shows for various causes, as well as to create awareness on any issue of public concern.
The team of youngsters, who are professionals from various fields and students, are committed to do their bit to the society, through mime. “We also do shows to raise funds for education of poor students. Deserving candidates are supported by us throughout their education,” Mr. Gopi says.
The studio presents motivation programmes, street plays for awareness programmes conducted by Government, pantomime shows and sound and lights shows.
Acting and theatre courses are also conducted. It has been training college students, especially those of Loyola and Ethiraj, for variety entertainment.
Many, who have got trained here, are professionals across the country, says Mr. Gopi, who has been awarded by various organisations for his mime skills and social initiatives.
Apart from these, G-Studio also offers training in sports for the less-privileged children. Sports meets are conducted for them. Karan, a special child, trained by G-Studio has been excelling in basketball and will be taking part in Paralympics 2015.
“Motivation is all that is needed. They perform instantly,” says Mr. Gopi adding that positive approach has been the strength of the team. For details, contact 98840 32100.
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