Quite unlike what "dramatic" stands for, theatre tends to be subtle in its impact; seeping into the viewers' consciousness with repeated exposure, strengthening their relationship with art in the process. And empathy, that one quality which determines the degree of kindness in the world, "is a very big part of the sensitisation that happens through theatre," says Shaili Sathyu, artistic director of Gillo Repertory Theatre, a Mumbai-based organisation that believes in starting young.

Having created theatrical experiences for young audiences since 2009, the repertory is celebrating its 10th anniversary, which also marks its 10th summer season of plays. The season, which began last Saturday and goes on till May 26, features age-specific plays, including two new productions, to be performed at venues in Bandra, Juhu, Powai and Nariman Point. "Not every parent has the aesthetic, logistic or financial access to theatre. That's why we wanted to take our work to different neighbourhoods," Sathyu tells us.