Vermont Public is independent, community-supported media, serving Vermont with trusted, relevant and essential information. We share stories that bring people together, from every corner of our region. New to Vermont Public? Start here.

© 2024 Vermont Public | 365 Troy Ave. Colchester, VT 05446

Public Files:
WVTI · WOXM · WVBA · WVNK · WVTQ
WVPR · WRVT · WOXR · WNCH · WVPA
WVPS · WVXR · WETK · WVTB · WVER
WVER-FM · WVLR-FM · WBTN-FM

For assistance accessing our public files, please contact hello@vermontpublic.org or call 802-655-9451.
Vermont Public
BBC World Service
Vermont Public
BBC World Service
Next Up: 6:00 AM A Way With Words
0:00
0:00
BBC World Service
Vermont Public
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

VPR's coverage of arts and culture in the region.

An Art Space In Ethiopia Has Strong Vermont Ties

Courtesy, David Schein
International grafitti artist Behulum Mengistu, who got his start at the One Love Theater, consults with neighborhoods and community members in his home city before painting his artwork on the walls.

What began as a theater space in the Ethiopian city of Awassa to educate community members about HIV/AIDS has strong Vermont ties.

In the early 2000s, local actor David Schein went to Ethiopia to help found One Love HIV/AIDS Awareness Theater. His goal was to teach young people theater and circus arts so they could present it to communities and educate them on HIV/AIDS prevention. The One Love Theater was a great success and, over the years, has collaborated with writers, visual artists, actors and musicians from all over the world, making art for social change.

Now, Ethiopian hip hop and graffiti artistBehulum Mengistu, who was one of those kids attending the One Love Theater art space years ago, is that theater's managing director. And he is in Vermont to share his works, his music and message of art for social change.

While in the state, Behulum has been visiting local schools to work with students, creating art projects and sharing the story of One Love Theater. Schein and Mengistu both recently spoke to VPR about the project.

Credit Courtesy, artist Behulum Mengistu

The Behulum Graffitti and One Love Theater event is Tuesday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., at The OffCenter For The Dramatic Arts on N. Winooski Avenue in Burlington. Meet the artist, learn about making theater in Africa and find out more about the Willowell Foundation's Vermont/Ethiopia Teachers' Exchange.

Mary Williams Engisch is a local host on All Things Considered.
Latest Stories