Applied theatre

Definition

Applied theatre refers to the use of theatrical practices and techniques in non-traditional settings for purposes such as education, community development, or social change. It often involves participation from the audience or community members, making it a collaborative process that seeks to address real-world issues through performance and storytelling. This form of theatre emphasizes the importance of skill development and ongoing learning as participants engage with content that reflects their lives and experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Applied theatre is often focused on social change, using performance as a tool for dialogue and reflection on community issues.
2. Workshops in applied theatre not only teach performance skills but also encourage personal growth, critical thinking, and collaboration among participants.
3. The process of creating applied theatre can involve diverse methods such as improvisation, role-playing, and script development based on participant input.
4. This type of theatre can take place in various settings, including schools, prisons, hospitals, and community centers, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity.
5. Applied theatre projects may culminate in public performances or presentations that aim to raise awareness or provoke discussion about the topics addressed during the process.

Review Questions

• How does applied theatre facilitate skill development among participants while addressing social issues?
  • Applied theatre creates a space for participants to develop a range of skills including communication, teamwork, and creativity. Through active participation in performances and workshops, individuals learn to express themselves more effectively while exploring complex social issues relevant to their lives. This collaborative approach not only fosters personal growth but also encourages critical dialogue about the problems being addressed.
• What role does audience participation play in applied theatre and how does it impact the learning experience?
  • Audience participation is a key element in applied theatre that transforms spectators into active participants. This engagement allows audiences to connect more deeply with the material, reflecting their own experiences and insights. By involving the audience in the performance process, applied theatre fosters a sense of community and shared learning, enhancing the overall impact of the themes being explored.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of applied theatre as a method for promoting social change compared to traditional forms of performance.
  • Applied theatre is often more effective than traditional performance forms in promoting social change because it actively involves communities in the creation and exploration of their own narratives. This participatory approach allows for a deeper understanding of social issues from multiple perspectives. By encouraging dialogue and collaboration among participants and audiences alike, applied theatre not only raises awareness but also empowers individuals to take action in their communities, leading to tangible outcomes that traditional performances may not achieve.

Related terms

Theatre of the Oppressed: A form of applied theatre developed by Augusto Boal that uses interactive techniques to empower marginalized communities by allowing them to enact and transform their own social realities.

Community Theatre: A grassroots form of applied theatre that engages local participants to create performances reflecting their shared experiences, culture, and social issues.

Theatrical Workshop: A structured environment where participants can learn theatrical skills while working collaboratively on creative projects, often as part of applied theatre initiatives.