LAOS SILK PROJECT
Dr. Somsanith - The Master at work.
Press release:
Local Restaurateur Asks for help to feed and educate impoverished Laotian young people
Alphington September, 2007. In Mid October, Bryan Derrick , owner of Paladarr Thai Issan in Alphington, and Director of the Theatre of Transformation Company, is heading over to Laos to fulfil 3 promises:
Firstly to assist the English Department of Suphanuvong University in Luang Prabang, to develop English Courses with the teachers using Drama and Theatre.
Secondly, to work with Doctor Nithakhong Tiaoksomsanith, a Prince and direct descendant of the former Laos Royal Family, and Master French Gold Thread Embroiderer.
He is bringing young people from all areas of Laos to learn music, dance and Art in Luang Prabang.This collaborative effort will develop an Enculturation Program for visitors to Luang Prabang to immerse themselves in Laos Culture, Spirituality, Music, Dance and Cuisine.
“This course will be a wonderful way to educate visitors in the beauty and timelessness of Laos Culture” Derrick says.
“You know you are getting close to his house,” Bryan explains with a grin. “You can hear the kids practicing their music and the rhythmic clapping of long bamboo poles used in their amazing traditional dance routines a mile away!”
Hand made gifts that we'll sell at Paladarr. Vanhxay Sourcing silks for Paladarr.
Thirdly, after meeting a group of young people at the University and learning of the enormous difficulties they faced in financing their own education, supporting their families and keeping themselves alive on the meager wages they earned in the tourist Season, he suggested the possibility of a partnership with them and his Paladarr Restaurant.
“The moment I heard that these Laos kids needed help to get them through their education and keep them off the streets I knew I had to pitch in”. Bryan said.
Derrick’s Laotian adventure started when he and his Thai born Chef and Business partner Chaloem were leading their first Cooking Tour into Thailand and Laos.
He was introduced to Dr Somsanith quite by accident, on the recommendation of an American traveler he met at breakfast beside the Mekong River. “Bryan, you simply must meet this guy! The work he is doing with the Young Laos people of is inspirational” he said.
Bryan has been a long term passionate supporter of Laos and the Laotian people. “We’ll be giving aid and support directly to the people who need it most, the University, schools, community development programs, and assistance to individual young people through the establishment of a silk, cotton and fine handicrafts exporting partnership with Paladarr.”
Paper making in a village near Luang Prabang, Laos.
Bryan is seeking assistance from local businesses and Clubs who would be interested in running fundraising activities for his “Theatre of Transformation” English project, Dr Somsanith’s Laos Performing Arts project and the Youth Laos Silk Project with all monies directly benefiting those most in need.
Donations and support are most welcome.
You can purchase these beautiful silk and cotton scarves and handicrafts by dropping into the restaurant or giving Bryan a call.
Dr. Somsanith and his puppy. Vanhxay with the finished puzzle.
Doctor Somsanith’s Project is a non-profit, non-political organisation founded in 2001 by him in 2003, with a number of colleagues and volunteers who are dedicated to promoting sustainable development while preserving the rich cultural heritage of Laos.
For more information on how to support this mission call Bryan Derrick on on 0412 050507.
