LocationsInclusive Theater Performance Showcases Strength and Leadership of Women with Disabilities
December 10, 2024
Bishkek, 10 December 2024 – To mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3) and the culmination of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kyrgyzstan presented an Inclusive Theater Performance. Hosted at the Bishkek City Theatre named for Arsen Omuraliev, the performance brought together 12 women and girls with disabilities to share their stories of resilience and leadership.
The performance, Shire-Sheri-Ne—a term from Kyrgyz culture symbolizing a gathering where everyone has a voice—focuses on overcoming the intersecting challenges of gender and disability discrimination. Developed collaboratively with the participants, the performance aims to challenge stereotypes and drive conversations on inclusion.
Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan.
UNDP Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan, Alexandra Solovieva, emphasized the broader goal. "This performance is more than storytelling; it’s about action. It’s a platform to raise awareness about the reality women and girls with disabilities face and to spark changes that ensure no one is left behind. Inclusion is not just a principle—it’s a necessity for building stronger, more equitable communities."
The initiative supports Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, particularly Article 6, which requires action to ensure women with disabilities can fully exercise their rights and freedoms.
“We worked directly with the participants to shape the script, ensuring their voices and experiences were at the center,” explained the scriptwriter. “The result is a performance that not only reveals the barriers they face but also celebrates their determination to overcome them and build solidarity.”
Nishana - participant of the performance.
One of the participants of the performance, Nishana Zheenalieva, admits that participation in the creation of this play, which was worked on by a professional directing team, had a therapeutic effect. She emphasizes: “Each of us overcame self-stigmatization, which also becomes a barrier to our participation in the life of society. During the performance production, I met other girls with disabilities; we talked a lot, so we became good friends. This experience showed that collective art allows you to liberate yourself from your fears and accept yourself as you are.”
As the world prepares for the upcoming World Summit for Social Development, UNDP urges greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in decision-making and innovation. From developing assistive technologies to leading community efforts, their contributions are vital to addressing today’s challenges and building a sustainable future.
For more information, please contact:
Ainagul Abdrakhmanova, Communications Officer
📧 ainagul.abdrakhmanova@undp.org
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