BZ Entertainment, a Drama and Film Society, announced its significant achievement in ongoing efforts to promote HIV awareness and combat stigma in Nagaland. In collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), BZ Entertainment has successfully concluded its 100th Street Play show, marking a milestone in their HIV awareness campaign across the state, stated a press release issued by the Society.
The Initiative’ which began on November 17, 2023, at Super-Market in Dimapur, traveled to multiple districts, culminating on November 19, 2024, in Kiphire District. Over the course of this extensive tour, BZ Entertainment conducted 10 impactful Street Plays in each of the participating districts, reaching a wide audience with essential information about HIV transmission, prevention, and the importance of testing.
“Each performance was carefully designed to educate the public on HIV/AIDS while addressing the critical need for testing and the importance of combating societal stigma. The collaboration with NSACS also included on-site HIV testing and counseling services, provided by the Mobile Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (MICTC) team. This ensured that attendees not only received information but were also given the opportunity for confidential testing and support,” informed the press release.
Furthermore, to encourage ongoing access to HIV-related services, BZ Entertainment displayed the contact details of District Programme Officers (DPOs) at each show, enabling individuals to reach out for further information or assistance. This proactive step ensured that attendees were empowered with the resources needed to take charge of their health and well-being.
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The 100-show milestone is a testament to the commitment of BZ Entertainment and NSACS to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. The initiative has travel’d across key districts in Nagaland, including Dimapur, Kohima, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Tseminyu, Noklak, Kiphire, Peren, and Tuensang.
“Each show was met with positive engagement, reflecting the community’s growing awareness and willingness to address this critical issue. BZ Entertainment continues to demonstrate the transformative power of art and culture in driving societal change. By using street play as a medium to engage audiences, the organization remains dedicated to creating a lasting impact on public health awareness in Nagaland,” added the Society.
As the campaign progresses, BZ Entertainment is set to perform an additional 20 shows in two remaining districts, bringing the total number of performances to 120. These final shows will mark the completion of the project, further solidifying BZ Entertainment’s role as a key player in HIV awareness and education.
