52 Weeks of Charity

In the challenging world of pediatric healthcare, where young patients face not only physical ailments but also emotional stress, the power of interactive theater is proving to be a transformative force. Only Make Believe, a remarkable organization dedicated to bringing joy and distraction to children in hospitals, has been at the forefront of this movement. Through the magic of live performances and interactive theater, Only Make Believe is making a significant impact on the lives of young patients, fostering resilience and hope during difficult times.

The Healing Power of Play:

Children, by nature, are curious, imaginative, and full of energy. However, when illness strikes and hospitalization becomes a reality, these qualities can be overshadowed by fear and discomfort. This is where the unique approach of interactive theater becomes a beacon of light. Only Make Believe understands that play is not only a means of entertainment but also a powerful tool for healing.

Interactive theater engages children in a dynamic and participatory way, encouraging them to explore their creativity and emotions.

Through storytelling, music, and interactive activities, the organization creates an environment where young patients can momentarily escape the confines of the hospital and embark on imaginative journeys. The transformative power of play allows children to experience a sense of normalcy and joy, crucial elements for their mental and emotional well-being.

Only Make Believe’s Mission:

Only Make Believe was founded in 1999 by Dena Hammerstein, inspired by her belief in the healing power of theater. The organization’s mission is to bring interactive theater and creative arts to chronically ill and disabled children in hospitals and care facilities. By partnering with professional actors and artists, Only Make Believe designs and performs interactive plays that cater to the unique needs of each child and their specific medical condition.

The Heart of the Program:

What sets Only Make Believe apart is the personalized and interactive nature of its performances. Trained actors visit hospitals armed with scripts that allow them to adapt to the needs and preferences of each child. The children become the stars of the show, with the actors incorporating their suggestions and even enlisting them as characters in the play.

The Only Make Believe actors bring a trunk full of costume pieces (hats, caps, masks, scarves and other pieces) and props. Children participate by creating characters and choosing their favorite costume.

In one example of an interactive play, an actor playing a Space Detective works with the children to solve a mystery – finding a lost key to a gold storage room somewhere in space!

At the end of the show, the children get to keep their costumes and can continue to play with them and wear them whenever they want.

The interactive theater program not only serves as a welcome distraction but also fosters a sense of empowerment among the young patients. Through the magic of storytelling, the children are transported to fantastical worlds where they can be anything they want, if only for a little while. This experience goes beyond entertainment; it provides an emotional outlet and a sense of control that is often lacking in a hospital setting.

Volunteering:

My co-worker, Alla, and I volunteered at Only Make Believe’s New York City headquarters one afternoon to help create caps and masks that would be used during the shows. We also looked through existing costume parts and props to fix anything that needed fixing and also to add jewels, colorful bobbins and lace, and other “bling” to existing costumes. It was a chance to get to learn about the organization and also to add creative fun to our day!

The volunteer coordinators explained everything we needed to know about working with the costumes and props. Glue, lace, jewels, glitter, markers, paint and all sorts of craft supplies were available for us to use and we were encouraged to let our imaginations roam!

We volunteered in person at their NYC headquarters. They also have a headquarters in Washington DC. You can also volunteer as a group remotely from anywhere. They’ll send you all the supplies and instructions and you can host your own costume collective design and creation event! Participants will be creating one-of-a-kind masks, hats and tutus – costumes children will use during the performances, and which they keep afterwards.

It is a great teambuilding activity for all ages! Great for corporate events, team activities, school activities, family reunions, etc. Any age can participate (young children with parental oversight).

No sewing or artistic talent required! Just the willingness to create something colorful and imaginative.

Impact and Success Stories:

The impact of Only Make Believe’s work is evident in the countless success stories that have emerged from their programs. Children who may have been reluctant to engage in other therapeutic activities find solace and joy in the interactive theater experience. Parents and healthcare professionals alike have noted improvements in mood, decreased anxiety, and increased cooperation among the young participants.

The organization’s commitment to inclusivity is another aspect that sets it apart. Only Make Believe recognizes the diverse needs of the children it serves, tailoring performances to be accessible to those with various physical and cognitive abilities. This dedication to inclusivity ensures that every child, regardless of their medical condition, can benefit from the healing power of interactive theater.

Conclusion:

In the world of pediatric healthcare, where resilience and hope are as crucial as medical interventions, Only Make Believe stands as a shining example of the transformative impact of interactive theater.

By bringing the magic of storytelling and play to children in hospitals, the organization is not just providing entertainment but also contributing to the emotional and mental well-being of these young patients.

As Only Make Believe continues to expand its reach and touch the lives of more children, it serves as a beacon of light, proving that in the face of illness, there is always room for joy, creativity, and the healing power of play.

To learn more about Only Make Believe, make a donation, or to volunteer, please check out their website at Only Make Believe

XO XO – – Penny