Forum theatre

Definition

Forum theatre is a form of interactive theater developed by Augusto Boal, where audience members can intervene in a performance to explore solutions to social issues. This technique allows participants to re-enact scenes, providing a platform for dialogue and discussion about societal problems, thus transforming passive spectators into active participants. By inviting the audience to suggest changes in the performance, forum theatre aims to promote social awareness and empower individuals to engage with the issues presented.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Forum theatre encourages viewers to analyze and reflect on social issues, breaking down the barrier between performer and audience.
2. This method originated from Augusto Boal's work in Brazil during the 1960s as part of his broader Theater of the Oppressed movement.
3. Performances often revolve around real-life situations, allowing participants to engage with problems they may face in their own communities.
4. Forum theatre is not just about entertainment; it seeks to create dialogue and inspire action towards social change.
5. The structure typically includes a play that presents a conflict, after which the audience is invited to intervene and suggest alternatives to the storyline.

Review Questions

• How does forum theatre transform traditional roles of spectators and performers in a theatrical setting?
  • Forum theatre shifts the conventional dynamic by allowing spectators to become active participants, known as spect-actors. In this model, the audience can intervene in scenes and propose different actions or outcomes for the characters. This engagement fosters a collaborative environment where everyone can explore solutions to social issues together, making the experience more impactful and empowering for those involved.
• Discuss the significance of the Joker in forum theatre and how they contribute to the overall experience.
  • The Joker plays a crucial role as a facilitator in forum theatre. They guide both the actors and audience through the performance, ensuring that interventions are constructive and meaningful. By encouraging discussions and drawing out ideas from spect-actors, the Joker helps maintain a safe environment where participants feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. This leadership enhances the collective exploration of social issues, making the process more engaging and effective.
• Evaluate how forum theatre aligns with broader objectives of social change and empowerment within communities.
  • Forum theatre aligns closely with goals of social change by actively involving community members in addressing their own challenges. Through this interactive format, participants not only identify problems but also generate potential solutions collaboratively. This process empowers individuals to take ownership of their voices and actions, encouraging them to apply what they've learned in real life. Ultimately, forum theatre serves as both an artistic expression and a powerful tool for fostering community engagement and inspiring transformative social action.

Related terms

Theater of the Oppressed: A theatrical movement founded by Augusto Boal that uses performance as a means to challenge oppression and inspire social change.

Joker: A facilitator in forum theatre who guides the audience and actors during the performance, helping to initiate discussions and interventions.

Spect-Actor: An audience member who becomes an active participant in forum theatre, stepping into the role of an actor to propose solutions to conflicts in the performance.