Never-before heard stories come together in this piece which shows the trials and triumphs of a group of traditional Romani women from the Ursari (bear trainers) nomadic group who are travelling from Eastern Europe to the UK. As the bus passes through different countries and landscapes, memories are brought out in a mental monologue full of emotion and bittersweet nostalgia. Based on true events, Gelem Gelem is a snapshot of what it means to be Romani; from discrimination, marginalisation and loneliness, to fitting in and starting a life in the UK, Gelem Gelem celebrates the integration of the group through the power of resilience, determination and education.
Produced as a collaboration with Salford University, KaskoSan Romani Charity and The Ideas Fund.
The Ideas Fund matches community groups with researchers to explore ideas related to improving mental wellbeing.
