Theatre Volunteer Stories

Theatre Volunteer Stories

 

An Unforgettable Experience with VWI Overall, I’ve truly enjoyed my time here — it’s been an experience I’ll never forget. If I could, I’d give it a 10 out of 9 for the level of satisfaction and fulfillment I’ve felt throughout the program. I chose to volunteer with Volunteering With India (VWI) because I wanted to gain firsthand experience of living in India while contributing my skills in theatre to help children express themselves creatively. It was a perfect blend of cultural immersion and purposeful work. The host family was... Read More

An Unforgettable Experience with VWI

Overall, I’ve truly enjoyed my time here — it’s been an experience I’ll never forget. If I could, I’d give it a 10 out of 9 for the level of satisfaction and fulfillment I’ve felt throughout the program.

I chose to volunteer with Volunteering With India (VWI) because I wanted to gain firsthand experience of living in India while contributing my skills in theatre to help children express themselves creatively. It was a perfect blend of cultural immersion and purposeful work.

The host family was incredibly kind and welcoming, always making me feel at home. The food was tasty and comforting, and transportation was always smooth and on time. A special mention to Govind, who was not only helpful but also enthusiastic in supporting the work — his involvement made everything easier and more enjoyable.

This program gave me much more than I expected — new friendships, meaningful experiences, and memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.

HARLEY HENSEN, U.K
THEATRE VOLUNTEER WORK

A Rewarding Theatre Volunteering Experience in Jaipur with VWI From the very first day I arrived in Jaipur, I was made to feel incredibly welcome by the Volunteering With India (VWI) team and the warm host family. On my first visit to the school, I was a bit nervous, but that quickly faded — the children were all so kind, enthusiastic, and eager to learn. During my 2-week volunteering experience, I organized three special theatre programs for the children. One of the highlights was a puppet show that I helped... Read More

A Rewarding Theatre Volunteering Experience in Jaipur with VWI

From the very first day I arrived in Jaipur, I was made to feel incredibly welcome by the Volunteering With India (VWI) team and the warm host family. On my first visit to the school, I was a bit nervous, but that quickly faded — the children were all so kind, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.

During my 2-week volunteering experience, I organized three special theatre programs for the children. One of the highlights was a puppet show that I helped the children prepare and perform on my final day. It was a proud and emotional moment seeing them shine, and I felt a deep sense of accomplishment — although it was bittersweet as my time was coming to an end.

I chose VWI because I specifically wanted to do something related to theatre education, and I came across their website during my search online. The reviews were excellent, and I appreciated that they are locally based in Jaipur, which made me feel they were genuinely connected to the projects on the ground — unlike many overseas organizations.

From my very first email, the project staff showed excellent communication skills, answering all my questions clearly and promptly. The project coordinator was incredibly helpful, both at the school and whenever I needed assistance during my stay.

The transportation service was reliable and punctual, and the driver was always happy to stop if I needed anything along the way. The accommodation was fabulous, and the host family made me feel right at home — always going above and beyond to support me. The food was delicious, with plenty available at every meal.

I absolutely recommend this theatre volunteering project to anyone passionate about drama, education, or creative expression. Sharing my love for theatre with the children has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I give my overall experience a solid 10 out of 10!

KELLY BANNISTER, U.K

Incredible Theatre Volunteering Experience with VWI I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived in Jaipur, and honestly, I was a little nervous at first. But from the moment I joined the Theatre Volunteering Program with Volunteering With India (VWI), everyone made me feel completely at ease. The warmth and friendliness of the staff, host family, and especially the children made the experience truly unforgettable. The children were an inspiration, and it was a genuine pleasure to teach and spend time with them. I bonded very quickly with the... Read More

Incredible Theatre Volunteering Experience with VWI

I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived in Jaipur, and honestly, I was a little nervous at first. But from the moment I joined the Theatre Volunteering Program with Volunteering With India (VWI), everyone made me feel completely at ease. The warmth and friendliness of the staff, host family, and especially the children made the experience truly unforgettable.

The children were an inspiration, and it was a genuine pleasure to teach and spend time with them. I bonded very quickly with the group, and saying goodbye was incredibly emotional — I almost cried when one of the boys was visibly upset that I was leaving. That moment showed me just how meaningful our time together had been.

I would encourage anyone considering this program to grab the opportunity with both hands — it truly is amazing. I’ve learned so much and had the best experience of my life. I would gladly rate VWI 10 out of 10 for their exceptional coordination and support.

The project staff were incredibly helpful, and special thanks go to Govind, who provided great assistance during the theatre activities. The transportation services were brilliant — the taxi was always on time, and the driver greeted me with a smile every day. It made getting to the project smooth and enjoyable.

The accommodation was very nice, and the host family was welcoming and kind. The meals were delicious and comforting, giving me a real taste of Indian home-cooked food. Every aspect of the program — from living arrangements to daily volunteering — was thoughtfully organized.

I highly recommend the Theatre Volunteering Project in Jaipur to anyone looking to make a difference, gain valuable teaching experience, and immerse themselves in Indian culture. I hope to return again soon!

STEVE HUGHES, U.K

A Life-Changing Theatre Volunteering Experience in Jaipur My time in Jaipur, India, was absolutely fantastic! From the very first day I arrived from England, everything was organized seamlessly. The Theatre Volunteering Program was clearly explained to me, and the next morning, my designated tuk-tuk driver — a true hero — picked me up right on time. He was incredibly kind and helpful, even stopping for food along the way and introducing us volunteers to his lovely family. When I first reached the school, I was surprised to see how poor... Read More

A Life-Changing Theatre Volunteering Experience in Jaipur

My time in Jaipur, India, was absolutely fantastic! From the very first day I arrived from England, everything was organized seamlessly. The Theatre Volunteering Program was clearly explained to me, and the next morning, my designated tuk-tuk driver — a true hero — picked me up right on time. He was incredibly kind and helpful, even stopping for food along the way and introducing us volunteers to his lovely family.

When I first reached the school, I was surprised to see how poor the area was. But once I started working, each day was filled with excitement — sourcing materials from local markets to create costumes, props, and scenery. I brought paper for scripts and paints for the sets, which immediately got the children excited and engaged. Their eyes lit up when I arrived with bright colors and fun props!

Before coming to India, I had planned to teach them two plays: the classic children’s story “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” and a simplified version of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”, adapted for ages 2–15. Both scripts were interactive and fun, with simple lines to help them learn and enjoy performing. The best part of this program is that you have creative freedom — you can teach any kind of theater you’re passionate about.

The children were wonderful — curious, enthusiastic, and full of energy. Their excitement made each day rewarding. At the end of the program, they got to perform their plays to a small audience, which included coordinators, teaching assistants, fellow volunteers, and myself. I even recorded the performances — an unforgettable moment for both the kids and me. They grew in confidence, language skills, and creativity during our time together.

Outside of volunteering, I fully immersed myself in Indian culture, living with a traditional host family whose values and lifestyle were a fascinating contrast to European norms. I got to celebrate Indian festivals, taste home-cooked meals, and explore the rich architecture of Jaipur — from Amber Fort, Monkey Temple, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, to Jal Mahal (the floating palace).

After my time in Jaipur, I also joined VWI’s Golden Triangle Tour, visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the breathtaking Taj Mahal, the Red Fort of Agra, and then on to New Delhi to see India Gate and a beautiful Buddhist Temple. Each place offered a unique window into India’s rich history and vibrant culture.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Theatre Volunteering Program in Jaipur. It was a life-changing adventure that opened my eyes to a completely different world — one filled with beauty, resilience, and joy. If you’re passionate about theatre and cultural exchange, this is the program for you.

Rosie Evans, U.K

A Memorable Drama Teaching Experience in Jaipur The arrival pick-up service was very good, and everything was well-organized from the start. The accommodation and food were basic but nice, and provided all the essentials needed for a comfortable stay. A special mention to Totoram, the tuk-tuk driver, who was wonderful, friendly, and always a joy to ride with. Traveling around Jaipur in the tuk-tuk was a fun part of my daily routine. The project staff members were extremely helpful and welcoming. I genuinely enjoyed spending time with them, visiting their... Read More

A Memorable Drama Teaching Experience in Jaipur

The arrival pick-up service was very good, and everything was well-organized from the start. The accommodation and food were basic but nice, and provided all the essentials needed for a comfortable stay.

A special mention to Totoram, the tuk-tuk driver, who was wonderful, friendly, and always a joy to ride with. Traveling around Jaipur in the tuk-tuk was a fun part of my daily routine.

The project staff members were extremely helpful and welcoming. I genuinely enjoyed spending time with them, visiting their homes, and meeting their families — it added a beautiful local connection to my journey.

Working with the children was both challenging and deeply rewarding. These children, rescued from factories or violent homes, had no prior exposure to drama or theater, so it was a completely new concept for them. Despite this, they were eager to learn, and it was heartwarming to see their curiosity grow with each session.

During my stay, I taught them a drama act focused on how blind children use their senses, which turned out to be a powerful and emotional performance. The program coordinator was a huge help, especially in translating since the children didn’t understand English.

Teaching music and drama to these resilient children will be a memory I’ll cherish for life. If you’re thinking about volunteering, this is a must-do experience.

MOLLY HADDON, AUSTRALIA

A Truly Great Experience with VWI The host family, accommodation, and food were all amazing — I felt completely at home from the moment I arrived. The airport pick-up and transportation service during the project were both smooth and reliable, making everything stress-free. Our project coordinator was very kind and supportive, always there when needed. I chose to volunteer with Volunteering With India (VWI) to both help the community and gain new experiences, and I’m so glad I did. I’d absolutely rate my overall experience a 10 out of 10.... Read More

A Truly Great Experience with VWI

The host family, accommodation, and food were all amazing — I felt completely at home from the moment I arrived. The airport pick-up and transportation service during the project were both smooth and reliable, making everything stress-free.

Our project coordinator was very kind and supportive, always there when needed. I chose to volunteer with Volunteering With India (VWI) to both help the community and gain new experiences, and I’m so glad I did.

I’d absolutely rate my overall experience a 10 out of 10. It’s been a truly great and enriching experience. One important thing to note — you need to take initiative and get involved; it’s not a passive program. But rest assured, you’ll always be well looked after and supported by the team.

MADDY BANKS, U.K

A Meaningful Experience for Me and My Son Having spent many years in India, I wanted my son Harley to experience life here as well — not just as a visitor, but by truly engaging with the community. Volunteering with VWI gave us that chance, and we were surprised to see just how much support and help is still needed in many areas. We are so glad to have contributed in our own small way to a project that has such a big impact. It was humbling and heartwarming to... Read More

A Meaningful Experience for Me and My Son

Having spent many years in India, I wanted my son Harley to experience life here as well — not just as a visitor, but by truly engaging with the community. Volunteering with VWI gave us that chance, and we were surprised to see just how much support and help is still needed in many areas.

We are so glad to have contributed in our own small way to a project that has such a big impact. It was humbling and heartwarming to be part of something meaningful, and it gave us both a deeper appreciation for the strength and resilience of the local community.

The accommodation, food, and transportation services provided by the program were excellent. Everything was well-organized and comfortable, and we always felt well taken care of. The project staff members work incredibly hard and do a truly fantastic job — their dedication and kindness really stood out.

I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone considering volunteering in India. For us, it was a 10 out of 10 experience — both rewarding and unforgettable.

CATHERINE FRANK HENSEN, U.K
THEATRE VOLUNTEER WORK

A Brilliant Experience in the VWI Theatre Workshop My experience in the Volunteering With India (VWI) Theatre Workshop was — how can I put it to truly capture the feeling? — absolutely brilliant. As an aspiring artist, it was incredibly fulfilling to have the opportunity to do what I love most while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I worked with children at a school in Jaipur, India, and by the end of my two-week volunteering journey, the students performed a full showcase in front of their... Read More

A Brilliant Experience in the VWI Theatre Workshop

My experience in the Volunteering With India (VWI) Theatre Workshop was — how can I put it to truly capture the feeling? — absolutely brilliant.

As an aspiring artist, it was incredibly fulfilling to have the opportunity to do what I love most while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I worked with children at a school in Jaipur, India, and by the end of my two-week volunteering journey, the students performed a full showcase in front of their teachers and classmates — a moment of pride for all of us.

We began with simple introductions, and at the start, I had no idea just how talented and expressive these children would turn out to be. As the days passed, their talents quickly emerged. Some had a natural flair for dance, so we rehearsed one traditional dance and two modern routines. Others displayed strong acting skills and took on roles in a short drama performance. Every day brought us closer as we laughed, practiced, and discovered new things — not just about theatre, but about ourselves.

I was welcomed with open arms and warmth from the very beginning. Despite limited resources and the lack of formal facilities, the children showed incredible dedication and passion. Their performances were heartfelt and sincere — proving that creativity and talent know no boundaries.

I’m truly grateful for this opportunity. My time in the VWI Theatre Program reminded me that talent can thrive anywhere — even in places often overlooked due to economic conditions. I sincerely hope these children will continue to receive support to nurture their gifts and reach their full potential.

This was more than just a volunteer project — it was an eye-opening, inspiring, and deeply rewarding journey that will stay with me forever.

Maria, Spain
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