Our story begins by transporting us to Karachi in Pakistan before Ramadan and captivates audiences as they learn how to spot the moon and its phases to know when Ramadan begins. The story then takes us to the house of Amnah and Adam. In the month of Ramadan, fasting takes place during the daytime, so families must eat before dawn. Amnah has woken up to the beat of the neighbourhood’s Dhol wala (Ramadan Drummer), an ancient tradition of Ramadan. The Dhol wala uses a small drum to help people arise in time for Suhur, the early morning meal eaten before dawn. This is a particularly important job, and so is thought to be a boy’s job! In this story, however, our drummer girl knows she can do anything. She dreams of becoming one herself. However, no girl has ever taken on this role before. Will she have what it takes to become the drummer girl of her dreams? 

This interactive storytelling show introduces children of all cultures and faiths to the traditions of Ramadan and sparks all the senses as they are asked to listen, touch, smell, and even taste dates, the traditional food often chosen to break the fast. At points in the story, items are shared with the audience members, such as stars to hold or fruit to taste and to make them part of the show. This is also a story of sincerity, determination and of belief in yourself as Amnah, supported by her family, learns that she can achieve anything, including her dream of becoming a Ramadan Drummer!

This is an important story to tell, not only so Muslim children see their own stories re-created but also because it is a wonderful way to introduce all children to Muslim traditions and culture so they might better understand their friends, neighbours, and classmates.

This piece is for all ages but is especially suited to ages 3-8. 

Duration is 20 min