Table 3 General steps, in chronological order for conducting a Kalajatha programme

Target: Local community suffering from a specific disease for which they can contribute in the control programme.

Partners and planning: Select the problematic area. Identify the related partners. Form a co-ordination committee involving all potential partners. Arrange funding for the programme. Identify the artists. Conduct the programme in an appropriate season and time. Give wide publicity and seek political and religious support. Rehearse the programme.

Content: Compose music and drama based on the local dialects and tradition carrying the key messages of the disease and its control methodologies. Emphasis should be given on their specific role in the control programme.

Logistics: Materials for event management e.g. wardrobe, light and sound systems, refreshments, honorarium and transport etc. for the artists should be made available in time.

Precautions: Prior consent of the community should be obtained. Other programmes should not coincide in the same area. An orientation workshop is necessary for the collaborating partners before launching the programme. Co-ordination should be maintained at all levels and time.