Music Art Project's annual Music of Hope concert takes place this Saturday, 24th June 2023 at the Madleianum Opera and Theatre in Zemun, Belgrade. Performing will be members of the "Music of Hope" programme from the Branko Pešić School and the BCB - Belgrade Ballet Centre, and with the members of the guitar trio from the class of prof. N. Kondić.
On the programme, Manuel de Falla’s beautiful ballet, including choreography arranged for songs from Disney's Cinderella. Also included will be several cover versions of popular international songs using lyrics written by the children. All proceeds from the ticket sales will be used for the further development of the "Music of Hope" project.
"Music of Hope" is a unique programme in Serbia, developed in partnership with the famous El Sistema movement, which has been declared by UNESCO to be the best social inclusion programme in the world. The programme is implemented by Music Art Project, which has been working since 2014 to achieve the goal of social inclusion and development of children through music. An innovative group music learning programme within children's and youth orchestras and choirs, Music of Hope, provides them with creative and organised time away from the streets, where they can explore their own potential through a rich musical experience in a safe and inspiring environment, and have the opportunity to learn and develop holistically, saving many children from crime and social exclusion. Orchestras and Choirs of Hope are a perfect model of an inclusive community based on mutual respect, togetherness, cooperation and tolerance, raising generations of creative people, who are confident in their abilities and in each other.
Thanks to the programme, 15 selected children from this school are taking part in the play "The Children", based on the award-winning novel by Serbian writer Milena Marković, on the main stage of the National Theatre in Belgrade. The theatre performance shows all the obstacles to the unsuccessful integration of an autistic child into society and the suffering of his mother.
Working with professional actors from the National Theatre of Belgrade in such a difficult and challenging play for children, but very important for their development, self-esteem and open spontaneous communication with the outside world. Their parents, families and community are proud. The premiere was on 8 October 2022 and the play has been performed 14 times so far. It has also started touring the region and taking part in prestigious festivals. The play has become part of the theatre's annual repertoire.