Children in N. Ireland & Sri Lanka together find a way to deal with the legacy of conflict.

Parallel Versing -  a project developed and established by Beyond Skin (N. Ireland) & The Music Project (Sri Lanka)

The aim?  To use music to link children together from both countries to learn from each other and share the challenges and successes of growing up in a post conflict society where divisions still exist.

The outcomes? Imagine children in Sri Lanka having an impact on reducing  sectarianism & racism tensions in Northern Ireland. That is exaclly were this project is headed and visa versa. From the recent workshops in Sri Lanka this May, the children in Northern Ireland have already impacted the social environment of Sri Lanka, especially in the remote North.

Ironically it has been plastic cups and a traditonal Irish song that has helped build the bridge between Tamil & Sinhalese communities. (see video links)

Global awareness & citizenship, diversity education & good relations are embed throughout the project but in parallel with developing skills & confidence buiilding.

"We recognize that young people, regardless of their education, position in society, or socio-economic status, have inborn creative capacity for unbounded achievement"

For more information on how to get your school involved visit www.parallelversing.com or call the Beyond Skin office +447877756987

Here are recent music recordings all filmed, recorded and performed by the children from schools in Northern Ireland & Sri Lanka

To date the project has been funded by...
The Esufally Family Foundation
North Down Borough Council & Lisburn City Council through OFMDFM
Arts Council of Northern Ireland

“you actually done far more in a week with plastic cups than most agencies with large wallets have failed to do in years”  (Sri Lankan local representative)

The Cup song
http://youtu.be/iJPpfP6EVTw
“this is by far one of the most ambitious but relevant projects dealing with post conflict education across two countries opposite sides of the globe”  (Sri Lankan school principal)
Across the World in time
http://youtu.be/XHN2Kze_1xs

"An Irish song is now traveling throughout Sri Lanka embedding itself into local culture"

I'll Tell Me Ma
http://youtu.be/sCPr9ExhfAw

Store up good in your heart#

www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHUhK5Gh-1g