Latest news with #LittleRedRidingHood
Tatler Asia
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
Three masters, one stage: ‘Peter and the Wolf' and ‘Little Red Riding Hood' hit the stage this August
A classic fairytale by Charles Perrault dating back to the late 1600s, Little Red Riding Hood is a story we're all familiar with. In case you need a recap, it follows a young girl walking through the woods to bring food to her sick grandmother as the big bad wolf stalks her. To be directed by Ballet Philippines' Mikhail Martynyuk, Little Red Riding Hood will be a full-length ballet that features the compositions of French conductor Camille Saint-Saens and Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and promises a family-friendly approach to the beloved classic. 'Around the world, there are hundreds of versions of Little Red Riding Hood . We'll be reimagining our version to be more playful… We can't have the wolf eat the grandmother on stage,' says Martynyuk with a laugh. Ballet Philippines' Peter and the Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood runs for five performances from August 1 to 3, 2025, at the Theatre at Solaire, Parañaque. For more information, visit their social media pages. NOW READ Why you should watch The Sandbox Collective's 'Side Show: The Musical' The Playbook Club's 'First Love, Last Love: A Twinbill' tells intimate stories of time and connection Repertory Philippines brings Yasmina Reza's acclaimed comedy play to the stage, offering insights into art's true value
Barnama
18-06-2025
- Barnama
- Financial Fraud: A Modern Tale Of Deception And Trust
Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. In the vibrant chaos of bazaars, in the quiet corridors of offices, or in the muted footsteps of latecomers echoed on polished marble floors – from bustling markets to tall modern towers - Malaysia's vibrant workplaces are often viewed as stable and safe, reflecting a resilient and growing economy. Once upon a time, a young girl, dressed in a distinctive red hooded cloak, is sent by her mother to visit her sick grandmother. Along the way, she encounters a cunning wolf, who tricks her and reaches her grandmother first. When she arrives, she notices her grandmother looks unusual. But the wolf, disguised as her grandmother, tries to deceive her. Ultimately, a huntsman rescues the girl and her grandmother – and thwarts the wolf's plan. Financial predators prey on the trust and sometimes naivety of Malaysians. Operating under the guise of a reputable financial institution, for example, the perpetrators, lure victims with slick advertisements and testimonials claiming quick approval processes and minimal documentation. The Birth of Scams: A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing scam activities such as online fraud, phishing, fake banking websites, loan and credit card scams, investment schemes, romance and dating scams, as well as fake job offers have been on the rise, affecting individuals across different age groups and backgrounds. Yet, beneath this veneer of stability lies vulnerable demographics increasingly targeted by cunning scammers. As the authorities scramble to investigate, victims grapple with the betrayal of trust, reminiscent of a familiar fairy tale – Little Red Riding Hood – where appearances can deceive and danger lurks beneath the surface. The predators disguise themselves to deceive unsuspecting victims. Victims discovered that they had been duped into paying hefty upfront fees – ranging from hundreds to thousands of ringgits – for processing charges, legal fees, 'insurance,' or 'administrative charges' among others. The victim, often desperate for extra funds – perhaps for children's education, medical expenses, or personal emergencies – becomes tempted by the promise of quick cash. Many B40 Malaysians, who often face modest salaries and rising costs of living, found the opportunity tempting. However, what seemed like a golden ticket soon turned into a nightmare. The deception unveiled: a cunning predator Law enforcement agencies have identified financial frauds as a sophisticated operation involving, among others, celebrity endorsement or fabricated testimonials as baits to lure victims, fake agents posing as official representatives claiming to assist with loan approvals, and even fraudulent transactions by bank officers. The scam's success hinges on its ability to exploit vulnerabilities – particularly the trust Malaysians place in official-sounding entities and their limited familiarity with financial fraud. The perpetrators often operate in groups, maintaining multiple fake websites and social media profiles to create an illusion of legitimacy. The scam's complexity and the high stakes involved have left many victims feeling betrayed and helpless. In some cases, scammers manipulate victims into taking multiple loans from different 'lenders', promising that they can consolidate or manage repayments later. The catch: these are all fake, and the victims end up with multiple debts they cannot repay. "Little Red Riding Hood" of modern times The story of Little Red Riding Hood is a timeless cautionary tale about trust, deception, and the importance of discernment. In the fairy tale, the innocent girl trusts the wolf disguised as her grandmother, only to be betrayed by appearances. The wolf, cloaked in the guise of safety and familiarity, preys on her innocence, revealing the dangers of naivety and the necessity of vigilance. Similarly, financial scams prey on the trust of Malaysians who believe they are dealing with legitimate financial institutions. The perpetrators craft a convincing façade – a professional website, official-looking documents, and persuasive communication – to mask their true intentions. Just as the wolf disguises itself to deceive Little Red Riding Hood, these scammers use deception to lure victims into their trap. The story also underscores the importance of cautiousness. Little Red Riding Hood is warned by her grandmother – and later, the hunter – to beware of strangers and to recognise danger beyond appearances. In today's digital age, the general public must develop a similar vigilance: verifying the authenticity of financial entities, scrutinising offers that seem too good to be true and resisting high-pressure tactics. The impact on victims: trust shattered For many, the scam is more than just a financial loss; it's a breach of trust. Malaysians, who dedicate their careers to serving their families and the country, find themselves betrayed by those they trusted to safeguard their interests. The emotional toll is significant – feelings of shame, frustration, and fear of future exploitation. Take, for example, victims who not only were defrauded, but also faced relentless cyberbullying, with online perpetrators accusing them of greed and dishonesty. 'We felt very overwhelmed and distressed, as some of us were truly desperate for money,' a female worker said. Among her friends is a single mother whose struggles are compounded by her circumstances. Her ex-husband has refused to provide any financial support for her and their two children, leaving her to navigate the challenges of single parenthood alone. For her, the emotional toll of being scammed is intertwined with the ongoing stress of providing for her family in an environment where trust is fragile and support is scarce. These stories underscore a harsh reality: the scars left are not just financial – they deeply affect mental health and personal well-being. As authorities and communities work to combat scams, understanding the emotional toll is crucial in fostering a more compassionate and effective response. Some victims have reported that scammers even manipulated their personal data, leading to identity theft and further financial complications. The trauma is compounded by the realisation that they fell prey to a scheme that appeared so legitimate. This echoes the lesson from the Little Red Riding Hood: appearances can deceive, and trusting blindly can lead to peril. Bringing out the best in financial advisory: rebuilding trust amid crisis In the wake of rising financial frauds, Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK) stepped forward with a compassionate and proactive approach to support those affected. Recognising the urgent need for guidance and reassurance, AKPK extended its Financial Advisory services to a growing number of scam victims, demonstrating a commitment to restoring trust and hope. AKPK opened its doors beyond regular business hours, inviting scam victims to walk in directly at respective branches including Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Kota Bharu, Alor Setar, Kuantan and Melaka. This flexible approach allowed individuals to seek assistance without the usual appointment constraints, emphasising the organisation's dedication and capacity to personalise support during challenging times. To ensure the effectiveness of this initiative, financial advisors underwent specialised briefings on the dos and don'ts when engaging with distressed customers and the extended parameters of the Debt Management Programme (DMP). This enhanced programme significantly eased customers' burdens, offering a crucial lifeline through moratoriums on legal actions and avoid bankruptcy. Beyond debt restructuring, financial advisors demonstrated their unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive financial education, budgeting guidance, and access to income supplementation avenues via a Social Synergy Network, empowering customers with the tools for long-term financial resilience and a genuine second chance. One victim, a 43-year-old female employee, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, 'I wish to thank AKPK for showing us the way out.' The emotional toll of her journey was immense, yet the support she received from the financial advisors made a significant difference. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, 'They did not judge us at all and went above and beyond to help us within their means. Most importantly, they never once made faces at us, not even the young lady officers who helped us fill out the forms.' The advisors' genuine concern and personalised care provided a tremendous relief, offering strength in a moment of vulnerability. 'A simple gesture, but it meant the world to us at that moment,' she added. This initiative not only aimed to address individual financial difficulties but also to rebuild confidence and trust in the community. The dedication and empathy demonstrated by AKPK's financial advisors serve as a reminder that, even in times of crisis, compassion, empathy and understanding can truly make a difference – helping individuals turn a new page towards stability and hope. Combating the scam: lessons from the tale The authorities have stepped up efforts to warn the public about financial scams, emphasising the importance of due diligence. Financial institutions and government agencies regularly advise citizens to verify the legitimacy of offers through official channels and to be sceptical of quick-money promises. From the fairy tale perspective, the key lesson is to recognise the wolf in disguise -never trust appearances without scrutiny. Recognising red flags such as unsolicited offers, urgent payment requests, or suspicious communication channels can save many from falling into the trap. Just as Little Red Riding Hood was warned to stay on the path and be cautious of strangers, Malaysians are encouraged to be vigilant against scams, especially those targeting vulnerable groups in need of financial assistance. Moving forward: rebuilding trust and awareness The recent cases reported in the news serve as a stark reminder of the evolving landscape of financial fraud. It highlights the need for continuous education on digital literacy, critical thinking, and the importance of verifying sources before making financial commitments. The government has promised stricter enforcement against scammers and increased awareness campaigns, but individual vigilance remains paramount. Financial institutions are also strengthening their verification processes and educating their clients about scams. Employers and educational institutions can also play a critical role in disseminating awareness materials and offering guidance on safe financial practices. For Malaysia's working population and the general public, the message is clear: trust should be earned, not given blindly. Like the woodsman in Little Red Riding Hood who ultimately saves her from danger, individuals must be cautious, seek advice from trusted sources, and never rush into financial decisions based on persuasive but unverified claims. Conclusion: a cautionary tale for modern times Financial scam is a modern incarnation of a timeless lesson – appearances can deceive, and trust must be guarded. Just as Little Red Riding Hood's innocence made her vulnerable to the wolf's deception, modern income earners and the public must remain vigilant in an age where scammers craft convincing facades to exploit trust. By learning from fairy tales and real-life experiences, Malaysians can better navigate the digital and financial fraud landscape, safeguarding themselves from predators hiding behind the masks of legitimacy. The story of Little Red Riding Hood reminds us all: be cautious, verify, and never trust blindly, for beneath the surface, danger may be lurking, waiting to pounce. -- BERNAMA This article was contributed by the Corporate Communications Department of Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK).
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Ghosting and ‘breadcrumbing': the psychological impact of our bad behaviour on dating apps
Every single day, thousands of people around the world use dating apps to strike up conversations with strangers, with the supposedly mutual objective of finding a partner. However, placing blind trust in others' intentions is the first mistake that many users make – the person on the other side of the screen might not actually be in search of true love, or anything resembling it. In fact, several studies have highlighted that people use dating apps for all manner of reasons, ranging from conversation to just nosing around other profiles. When it comes to dating apps, the quest for true love is evidently the last thing on many people's minds. Far from a utilitarian matchmaking tool, dating apps more closely resemble a classic children's story, filled with conniving characters and emotional challenges. It is a world populated by cunning wolves, duplicitous trails of breadcrumbs, and ghosts that mysteriously vanish into thin air. Leer más: In our story, the wolf lurks in the depths of the dating app forest. Much like the hungry wolf in Little Red Riding Hood, this wolf hides behind a veil of deception – studies have found that during the initial phase of dating a person online, an average of around 7% of the information revealed is untrue. People often fall back on lies to make their profile seem more interesting, or to avoid awkward conversations. While in children's stories the truth always comes out, it can be much harder to distinguish fact from fiction on a dating app, and many users become jaded and sceptical once they've been deceived. A bad start to any relationship. In this story, many of us venture into a forest filled with breadcrumbs that mark the way. Unlike in Hansel and Gretel, these are not left to mark the path home, but rather to keep victims helplessly trapped in an intricate emotional maze. The practice of 'breadcrumbing' involves showing sporadic, irregular signs of interest without any real commitment to moving a relationship forward. Somebody that sparks your initial interest might leave these signals from time to time – a message here, a like there – in order to keep some kind of hope alive, but they never offer anything more. Those who follow the trail often find themselves lost, unsure of what to expect at any turn. According to a study, around 35% of dating app users have been either a perpetrator or victim of breadcrumbing. It is also anything but harmless. Breadcrumbing leaves its victims feeling trapped in a tangled web of emotion, one that is difficult to get out of unscathed. Other studies have shown that as breadcrumbing continues over time, people can experience lower life satisfacation and greater feelings of loneliness and helplessness, especially when they realise that their 'breadcrumber' has no intention of taking their relationship any further. Leer más: In this modern retelling, we also find ghosts who, just like their classical counterparts, have a habit of vanishing without a trace. This sudden disappearance is known as 'ghosting'. Repeated or sustained interactions on a dating app can raise expectations, so when someone is ghosted they can often find themselves feeling abandoned and uncertain, with little clue as to what happened to them, or why. This bewilderment can, on occasions, have a profound emotional impact. We can draw parallels to another storybook moment here: the magical match between Cinderella and her prince. Upon meeting they both feel an instant, powerful attraction, much like how two people might feel when they first start chatting on a dating app. Cinderella then 'ghosts' the handsome prince, leaving him with nothing more than a glass slipper and a vague sense of confusion. Luckily for the prince (and thanks in no small measure to his dogged efforts) the story ends well and love prevails. In the more modern tale of of dating apps, ghosting doesn't usually end with the protagonists living happily ever after. One study reported that around 20% of users had either ghosted someone, or been a victim of ghosting. Leer más: Lying wolves, breadcrumb trails and fickle ghosts are just some of the challenges that dating app users have to face. They can all leave victims feeling sceptical, cynical, frustrated or confused, but it doesn't need to be this way. Much like in Cinderella, where the story carries on after the dance, meaningful relationships can be built in real life, through real interactions and honest, open conversation. Instead of vanishing, scientific studies have shown that people find a greater sense of connection and authenticity by investing time and effort in developing relationships that go beyond the superficial level. By doing this, they build the foundation on which to construct their own love story. It is estimated that among young adults, two thirds of romantic relationships begin as friendships. Much like in children's stories, where people grow close before finding true love, a solid relationship is built on mutual understanding, trust and communication. To reference another fairytale, let's not forget how the Beauty and the Beast came to be together. Above all, we have to remember that we are the protagonists in our own stories. It is in our hands to write the ending we want. Este artículo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos académicos. Lee mas: AI dating is about data, not love: How to resist the tech takeover of romance Why using dating apps for public health messaging is an ethical dilemma Online dating fatigue – why some people are turning to face-to-face apps first Jon Andoni Duñabeitia no recibe salario, ni ejerce labores de consultoría, ni posee acciones, ni recibe financiación de ninguna compañía u organización que pueda obtener beneficio de este artículo, y ha declarado carecer de vínculos relevantes más allá del cargo académico citado.
Buzz Feed
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Adults Share Heartwarming Stories About Grandparents
As a certified Grandma's Gal, I always love hearing stories about other people's grandparents — especially older folks. There's something so nostalgic and comforting about them that feels like getting a big warm hug. Recently, older people on Reddit shared some of their fondest memories with their grandparents, and it made me grin from ear to ear. Here are some of the top comments: "Me and my sister would go to my grandparents' house almost every weekend. I had an Italian grandma. She showed me what love is. We would watch Lawrence Welk, and I'd dance in the crochet slippers she made me. My grandpa would tell us stories about Little Red Riding Hood, and in her basket were Liverwurst sandwiches. I lost my teddy while sleeping, and my grandma got into bed and snuggled me. So much comfort. So much love." —Present-Two-98 "I had only a grandmother who lived an hour away. Every year, I spent a week at her house. When I was about 10, she taught me how to play canasta, and we played a lot over the years. A couple of years later, while I was at her house, it was her turn to host the ladies' canasta party. All the ladies were in a tizzy because at the last minute, one player called to say she couldn't make it. Finally, Grandma proposed that I play as the 8th player. I could tell none of the ladies liked that idea until Grandma said I would be her partner. With relief, they all agreed." "Panama City, Florida, summers between about 1968 and 1977. Sitting on the front porch with my grandmother, shelling butterbeans or breaking snap beans in half. I hated the tedium of it at the time, but looking back on it, I'd love to be able to do that with her again. Being set up for bed, on summer nights, with my sister, on their screen porch, with blankets and a box fan. On some nights, they'd turn off the TV and just listen to the radio. Every now and then, my grandfather would pull my grandmother up from her chair and have a quick dance." "My grandmother teaching me how to shoot pool with a cigarette hanging out of her mouth. She was born in the 1800s. Gramps was killed in a liquor deal gone bad. She was a 'woman of the streets,' so to speak. She was deemed not fit to raise my dad, so he left to go live with her sister, his aunt, who had seven other boys; he was the youngest. He ended up enlisting at 15, served in three wars, and became an officer. He always sent her money and letters, which she kept. The money she spent. I was her fave." —TinCupJeepGuy "My mema would always say 'Give me some sugar' and kiss me and give me the most awesome hugs when we would go visit." "My grandma took me to the movies to see The Beatles' Hard Day's Night when it first came out. She was in her 60s and looked like the typical grandma. She was carded to get in. My grandma built Mardi-Gras floats in Mobile. She did the work by herself, and was in her 50s when she started that work. She built frames, did papier mache, applied gold leaf by hand, etc. All her grandkids loved hanging out in the warehouses she worked out of. We would get any candy leftover after Mardi-Gras. I could go on. She was the most amazing woman. She had nine kids and 59 grandchildren. I'm honored to have had her in my life." "Our Opa would stand in front of the curtained pantry, reach up and grab a candy bar from the top shelf (that us littles couldn't see) and tell us the cloud man came to visit." —KWAYkai "Once I was really sick in the winter, but it was sort of a nice day, so my grandma let me sit in her car with her in the sun while she taught me how to play Gin Rummy." "My maternal grandpa played the fiddle, and my siblings and I danced." "My paternal grandfather was my favorite grand. I'd sit on his knee and we'd talk and talk. He called me by the Scottish version of my name and never teased me about my red hair. I fell asleep many times while resting my head against his chest and listening to his heartbeat. He died when I was 8. I'm an old lady now, but I still miss him." —PeaceOut70 "My grandpa taking me fishing at dawn. Paddling ever so quietly away in the canoe while everyone was still sleeping on their houseboat. Him telling scary bedtime stories as I nestled in my sleeping bag outside under the bright, shiny stars up on top of said houseboat." "Standing in my grandpa's kitchen with him as he opened a popcorn maker. Kernels were still popping and going all over the kitchen. Their little Pomeranians were dashing around, eating popcorn off the floor. With every pop my grandpa was exclaiming 'dammit! dammit' while I just laughed. Standing in the same grandpa's kitchen 20-something years later, as he taught me to make salsa." "In 1st grade Sunday school, I was approached to play Joseph in the Christmas Pageant. I didn't want to do it…no how, no way. My grandmother made a special trip to come see me with her proposal. She would buy me a special toy right there and then if I agreed to be in the pageant. I loved all things space and astronaut-related. I shot for the moon — Major Matt Mason Space Station. We made the rounds of the stores in North Jersey and finally found one." "When it came time for the pageant, I hammed it up perfectly. I made like I was searching high and low for an empty inn, mimed an argument with the 'No Vacancy' innkeepers, and doted over my Wife Of The Night. People ate it up! My grandmother had tears in her eyes, she was so happy. It would be the biggest toy I ever received, and I played the hell out of it!"—stilloldbull2 "My Grandpa was missing three fingers from his left hand from a saw accident. He could still play the piano just as amazingly as before the accident." "Speaking Sicilian with my Nonno (grandfather). During my most awkward years (12-13), he was my best friend. Playing cards, sneaking into his room after the house was quiet, drinking Brown Derby beer (from the closet), and smoking Lark cigarettes." "Mine mostly passed when I was quite young or before I was born. I was always kind of jealous of kids who had good relationships with their grandparents. My one surviving grandmother was strange. I remember she had a cat journal where she documented her cat Totsy's daily activities, like almost a fanfiction. Totsy also lived for like 20 years. She didn't write anything about my mom in them, just cat." —NeiClaw "Some of my best memories were with my grandma. When I was younger, we'd bake pies and she'd take me to the mall for lunch and shopping. In her later years, the roles were reversed. She was one of the most genuine, positive, and beloved people I've ever known. She lived to be 100. I'll miss her dearly until the day I see her again." "My grandparents were the most wonderful people. I think my best memory of them, together, was at a wedding when I was 8. My grandmother was dancing the tarantella scarf dance, and my grandfather was laughing and clapping along. They were so happy. With my grandfather, my favorite memory was around the same time; my grandfather was a train engineer, and he would take me to work and let me 'drive the train.' He died when I was 10, but I lived with my grandmother until I joined the Army at 18. Probably my favorite memory of my grandmother was when I was I high school. I was in a band, and we would practice at her house. One day, the neighbors complained that they couldn't hear their TV, and my grandmother told them they should turn it up. I always felt supported by my grandmother, no matter what I did." "The smells at their house: the cypress trees that framed the front door, the clay of the garden in the back, the yeast rolls my grandmother made every day, and the clove gum my grandfather chewed. Just one of those smells takes me back, even 60 years later." —Baebarri "We went to my grandparents' house every Saturday when I was growing up. Everything just tasted better when my Gramma made it. We had egg salad, tuna fish, or cold cut sandwiches for lunch (cookies for dessert). 'Supper' (as they called it) was either London Broil or Chicken Parm (with one of my Gram's exquisite homemade pies for dessert). My Gramma played with me and my sister while Knight Rider was on TV (she would say, 'That Michael Knight is such a nice boy!'). Haha. My dad and grandfather watched sports in the other room. They're all gone now except for me and my sister. I still remember every inch of it." "The fish fries my grandparents would throw on Fridays or Saturdays. My grandpa was an avid sports fisherman and would always throw down fried bass with hushpuppies, cole slaw, and roasted parsley potatoes. We'd all stay outside in their rural, pastoral backyard catching fireflies until it got too dark, and then we'd all come inside and listen to someone bust out some amazing music. Then someone would say, 'Let's hit the highway, y'all.' This time has come and gone. It is a sweet memory. I am grateful for it." "My Grandma had an electric dryer that, when done, played the tune 'How Dry I Am.' She got me up very early one morning and insisted I sing for the milkman. I got a glass bottle of chocolate milk." —Sknowles12 "My paternal grandparents lived 8 hours away. We had a reel-to-reel with speakers and a microphone. We would record messages to them, mail them, and they would send one back. My favorite was my grandfather whistling for the dog, and he barked at the player." "I remember my grandma making delicious Dutch Olliebollen every Saturday morning and going for walks with her through Hoboken, New Jersey, where she would point out the houses and apartment buildings where people she knew died from the Spanish Flu. Then we'd stop at a pier and watch the tugboats push ocean liners into their berths." "My grandmother flew to see us, early in the mid-50s, 1955 or 1956. She smuggled a little kitten in her purse. She had the purse under the seat, and the kitten got out and wandered the plane. The flight attendant (stewardess, then) brought the kitten to my grandmother and said, 'I think you lost this.' Without a blink, she said, 'Thank you so much. It is a gift for my grandson.' We called the kitten Smudge because of the irregular dark mark on the forehead of the white kitten." —Off2xtremes "My grandparents were from rural Alabama. In 1978, we dug their last outhouse. We got them running water to the house four years later, but the memory of taking leave from the Army that summer and digging that hole while my grandma made us sweet tea was such a yin/yang moment. She made another ten years but at least had her own 'shitshed,' her words, not mine." And finally, "My grandfather had a tin with boiled sweets, but he was famous for not sharing. Us grandkids would never be allowed to have any... until he left the room. Then my grandma would call us in and have us quickly grab two each, 'One for the mouth, one for the hand.'" What's a special memory you have with your grandparents that shows how much times have changed? Share it with us in the comments or via the anonymous form below:
Axios
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Unhoused teens become playwrights through Straz partnership
Nine teens stand in a circle. Erin Lekovic, a playwright and community engagement instructor at the Straz Center, is in the middle, leading a round of "Fortunately, Unfortunately." "Unfortunately, I lost my car," one teen begins. "Fortunately, I had wings," another offers. "Unfortunately, I flew too close to the Sun," a third chimes in. Laughter spreads. The warmup ends. The teens sink into gray couches and open their scripts for today's rehearsal: a comedy they wrote about a gold-digging leprechaun. Why it matters: The youngest in the room is 13; the oldest, 18. All of them are experiencing homelessness and live at Metropolitan Ministries with their parents. But through a partnership between Metropolitan Ministries and the Straz, for 90 minutes each week, they're not case numbers — they're actors and playwrights. What they're saying: Justine Burke, vice president of marketing for Metropolitan Ministries, noted that many kids the nonprofit serves have never experienced Broadway-style theater. "It brings them a lot of laughter, a lot of joy. It relieves their stress and exposes them to things that they might otherwise not be able to do." Zoom in: Lekovic grew up in Tampa and is a product of the Straz's community engagement program. Her mom dropped her off in the summers while she worked. That's where she first learned that not all plays were written by "dead white guys." They could be made in a room with kids like her. And that stuck with her. She studied musical theater, started a theater company in New York, worked on stages in Chicago and wrote screenplays in Los Angeles. But her roots were in Tampa, and she returned in 2022. State of play: The teens have written two plays since January. One is a dark reimagining of "Little Red Riding Hood." The other started as a joke on St. Patrick's Day. Some of the teens miss classes, but they always come back. Over time, the talkative ones quiet down; the quiet ones speak up. Lekovic has watched them grow into an ensemble. She hopes a few keep writing. Maybe a few keep acting. But mostly, Lekovic hopes they remember what it felt like to build something together. What's next: Tonight, the teens have a stage reading. Not all of them will be there — some have jobs, some have SAT prep. Life.
