About The Peace Treaty
A play to be performed on Saturday, June 10th, 2006 4:30 – 7:30 during the Festival
Through the ages, the concept of a ‘peace treaty’ has been used as a means of fostering cooperation and harmony between tribes, states and nations. The diverse opinions about the governing and direction of a state naturally lead to compromise and the need for cooperation. However, governments and individuals are often sidetracked, misguided by the all too human failings of selfishness, greed and power.
The noted author, philosopher and playwright, J. Donald Walters (a.k.a. Swami Kriyananda, a foremost leader in the intentional communities movement) addresses these issues in his play, The Peace Treaty. This play was inspired by a short story written by Mr. Walters in 1941, when he was 15. The timeless ideals expressed in the original concept were relevant 65 years ago. They still are today.
The play reflects the conflicts and dilemmas that exist between national and international politics, and the changing needs and requirements of people living in society at large. The Peace Treaty explores the need for change in global consciousness, at the grassroots level. Where individuals, not just governments, are empowered to discriminate and live peacefully with their neighbors, regardless of differences in race, beliefs and culture. Where society caters not only to the needs of the individual but also to the global family of which we are all a part.
The action of the play takes place on a tiny island, somewhere in the Pacific. A war has just ended. Four clans have triumphed over their aggressor, a fifth clan. Each of the five clans has a particular cultural emphasis, dance, poetry, song, humor, and philosophy. As the story unfolds we watch the various clans fall victim to prejudice and corruption and teeter on the brink of annihilation. We also see the noble side of human nature when wisdom, love and compassion emerge as the characters work for a peaceful solution.
Mr. Walters shows us how this can be achieved through philosophy, humor, innocence, beauty and practicality. He suggests that each individual is involved to achieve a lasting peace. He reminds us of the need for people to change, if society is to change. The need to look beyond our self-involved lives, that our concerns include the lives and wellbeing of all people, for we are all part of one great human family. Then the seeds of peace, trust and love can propagate, flourish, and grow, spreading the flowers of cooperation, mutual respect and compassion.
The story of these universal principles is told with a refreshing innocence that is suitable for the whole family. One critic commented that The Peace Treaty has a strong Shakespearean flavor.
The Peace Treaty will be presented on Saturday, June 10th from 4:30 – 7:30pm, with an intermission, performed by actors and members of the Ananda Community, (founded by Mr. Walters). You won't want to miss this uplifting, humorous, and optimistic look at the possibilities for a bright future. Mr. Walters will attend this performance.
See The Expanding Light Yoga Retreat’s website for a schedule of other events and performances during the Joyful Arts Festival, June 9th – 11th, 2006.
