​12-02-2014: HIV/AIDS Awareness Programme

IT’S YOUR LIFE (HIV/AIDS AWARENESS PROGRAMME)

10 February – 21 February 2014

Through the power of edutainment, National Children’s Theatre (NCT) in partnership with Department of
Education will be presenting IT’S YOUR LIFE (HIV/AIDS AWARENESS PROGRAMME) to school learners in
Mamelodi, Soweto and surrounding areas. This programme will run from Monday 10 to Friday 21 February 2014.
The production has been made possible by part of a grant of R3 million from the National Lottery Distribution Trust
Fund (NLDTF).

This HIV/AIDS programme offers an opportunity for grade 7 to grade 9 students to develop positive decision making
skills and to help avoiding potential tragic consequences. The main objective is to increase the level of knowledge
and awareness among children and youth so that they can make informed choices about their own attitudes and
behaviors. The vast majority of SA youth do not think they are personally at risk of attracting the virus.
In the fight against HIV/AIDS, children have been referred to as the "window of hope", because their sexual patterns
are not firmly established. This is the basis for NCT’s prevention education in primary and high schools.
IT’S YOUR LIFE is performed by a professional company trained to address HIV prevention in a dignified and
professional manner. This production goes beyond being “just another play”. While sensitive in its presentation,
scenes are performed and learners are given the opportunity to ask questions and discuss relevant issues. The
frightening phenomenon of “date rape drugs” is also discussed.
Directed by Francois Theron, together with the versatile talented cast Zimkitha Kumbaca, Julius van Zyl, Sam
Medupe, Tsietsi Morobi and Trix Vivier.

IT’S YOUR LIFE teaches the life-skills necessary to face the challenges posed by modern living. It imparts the
necessary knowledge that empowers young people regarding the often confusing messages they receive. The
summation poses the question: “It is your life. It is your responsibility. You now have the knowledge. You now
have the power. What are you going to do with it?”
Thanks to the generosity of National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF) for sponsoring this
programme.

Johannesburg – Friday, 31 January, 2014
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit our website on www.nationalchildrenstheatre.org.za or Contact Sydwell
Koopedi on 071 313 2483 / 011 484 1577 or sydwell@nctt.org.za