Performances vary based on the skills and preferences of new volunteers. The basic framework has been set up by local Sankofa Center staff. Volunteers choose the type of involvement and participation they wish, or are capable of providing.
Once the traditional African dances have been learned by those volunteers wishing to participate, the dramatic interpretation of social issues that exist in Ghana will be improvised. Each program is different based on the social scenarios volunteers wish to dramatize. All volunteers (including those that do not wish to dance) are urged to participate in the creation of dance-dramas, whether it is providing props and costumes or contributing to the development of the dramatization. Past performances have included issues such as: older men taking advantage of poor schoolgirls who need money for food or school fees, myths and fears regarding condom use and HIV/AIDS testing, stigma and misunderstanding attributed to those with HIV/AIDS, as well as the support networks that are currently place for those living with HIV/AIDS.
These dance-dramas provide an excellent way to open up communication about HIV/AIDS and sexuality in general. Following the performance, volunteers provide the education (“HIV/AIDS 101″) needed to supplement what students have seen in each dance-drama. The combination of dance-dramas and HIV/AIDS education provides the basis for open communication which fosters behavioral change.