Final preparations are underway for Butakoci Production which is a theatrical musical that addresses the critical issue of human trafficking in Fiji, and for the country to break the culture of silence that is being practiced for years.
Renowned local artist, Talei Draunibaka who is leading the production says by combining music, dance, and storytelling, Butakoci Production aims to raise awareness about human trafficking, both historically and in contemporary contexts.
Draunibaka says the production seeks to educate and engage audiences, encouraging them to reflect on and take action against this serious issue.
She highlights it is a really dark situation when it comes to human trafficking in Fiji where most of the cases are being committed by the people who know the children being trafficked.
/+AUDIO-15935546746694a6b88d15e1556a13.mp3+AUDIO/
The musical component features original compositions by Talei Draunibaka, with Katheleen Waqa, and Savuto Vakadewavosa’s input.
Viveka Nand co-wrote and composed the melody of the Hindi song.
Phil Dakei, the Butakoci Team Recording Engineer, integrated all suggestions to create the final songs that will be presented at the show.
Draunibaka says Butakoci uses the power of the arts—music, dance, and drama—to engage audiences emotionally and intellectually.
She says by presenting compelling narratives, it seeks to highlight the human aspect of trafficking, encouraging viewers to reflect on the issue and consider their role in addressing and preventing human trafficking in their communities.
She says human trafficking has a long history in Fiji, dating back over 150 years to the era of indentured labour and blackbirding, when many were forcibly brought to Fiji and exploited for labour.
Butakoci Production is led by with support from The Asia Foundation and funding from USAID.
Butakoci Production will premiere at 6pm tonight at the Suva Civic Centre, and people can register for the free shows on Thursday and Friday at the same venue.
Government ministers, officials, the diplomatic community, civil society and faith-based organizations, media, development partners, and Pacific RISE-CTIP regional staff will attend the premiere tonight.
/+ARTICLE-297570+ARTICLE/
/+ARTICLE-297571+ARTICLE/
