ASOCYATI
Location: Copusquia - Bolivia - Latin America
Specialisation: preserving living cultural heritage
AsocYati came to existence through a number of private initiatives by Roberto Calisaya and in collaboration with the Dutch band Yatiyaña, for the development of the community of Copusquia, a region in the highlands of Bolivia. Funds were raised for necessary investments through his music band's concerts. Over the years, these projects have grown from some school supplies in 1995 to the establishment of water facilities in 1997, and a shorter road to La Paz in 2004. While working in the villages on these projects, attention has always been given to the cultural identity and heritage of Bolivia; through, for example, organizing informal gatherings where music was made, and asking the elderly about vanishing traditions. It was increasingly apparent how much the cultural heritage is threatened. Johan van de Keuken made a documentary about this in the 90's. The emphasis within AsocYati is on preserving and developing this rich culture and its traditions.
In 2007, the multi-annual project Tierra Espiritual started. Theatre Embassy and AsocYati work together for the preservation and awareness of the Bolivian folklore culture. With the assistance of Doris Mamani from Teatro Trono in Bolivia, with whom Theatre Embassy has also been working together, AsocYati slowly grows into a strong and independent partner.
