A programme has helped mainland children adjust to their new environment and gain a better understanding of their local counterparts. More than 50 locals and new immigrants between 12 and 19 joined 'Re-mapping The Emotional Landscape', organised by the Boys' and Girls' Clubs Association of Hong Kong, in October. The programme included workshops and essay-writing activities leading up to the big day - a performance in Kwai Tsing Theatre earlier this month. There, the stage was set for enthusiastic participants to tell their stories through puppetry, dance, music and art installation. 'Adolescence is full of challenges and frustrations. However, most teenagers lack the opportunity or courage to express their roller-coaster emotions,' said Ho Ying-fung, artistic director of Theatre Fanatico which organised the workshops. With 'growing up' as its main theme, the performance showcased multiple storylines, which included conflict between new immigrants and young Hong Kong people. Earlier, the performers attended 20 workshops conducted by artists from Theatre Fanatico and social workers. 'The workshops were quite demanding since students had to attend them three days a week after school. This was voluntary,' said Salina Chan Lai-yin, social worker from Cheung Sha Wan Children and Youth Integrated Services Centre. The programme helped teenagers to develop a sense of achievement, according to the organisers. Ho said: 'Some of the youngsters with learning problems did very well during the show. Unfortunately, this kind of talent is not acknowledged in schools. 'Through the performance, I sensed that the students had learned to express their feelings to their peers. It is not necessary to do this verbally - body language can be enough. 'Some students never said a word during the workshops at first. But they made an effort to express themselves towards the end,' he said. More than 100 essays were submitted. In one entry, a new arrival said she was surprised by the high-rise buildings and high land prices in the SAR.
