Beware of shadowy predators

‘ESCAPE’ a drama based on real life experiences of child sexual abuse

On September 15, LEADS together with writer/director Angelo Pereira and several volunteer actors presented ‘ESCAPE’. The drama, based on real life experiences of child sexual abuse was created with the aim to launch a sustainable, long term advocacy and networking campaign with the hope of reaching schools, religious leaders, policy makers and regulators, international advocacy agencies, diplomatic communities, media and corporate sector leaders.

ESCAPE (Eradication of Sexual Child Abuse, Prostitution & Exploitation) is the child protection division of LEADS- a national NGO established and developed to implement programmes that will alleviate human suffering and promote wholeness. ESCAPE was established in 1995 and was accepted by the Government through the NCPA (National Child Protection Authority).

Performed in the garden of Sooriya Village with a simple screen as the only set piece the monologues and short skits related the unfortunate real life stories of children in a variety of situations. From the ‘safety ’ of their own homes, religious places and family the simple yet realistic dialogue echoed from behind white screens where faceless shadowy predators could transform into friendly neighbours and priests as they entered on to stage.

The effort was to raise awareness among both adults and children and support for their cause with many eminent personalities and advocates taking the stage to share their thoughts on the social issue as well.