Forum Theatre brings people together to explore their differences and commonalities through a shared dramatic experience.
Forum Theatre starts with a short, powerful performance in which a problematic, unresolved situation is revealed. This is always linked to a real issue affecting an individual, community or corporate organization.
A facilitator, known as a Joker, then opens the story up to the audience for comments and suggestions. S/he carefully supports and guides them into creating alternatives to the actions taken by the characters in the story. These are acted out by the cast and by volunteer members of the audience.
Forum Theatre bonds groups together in a common cause to work on making positive changes.
In the words of its Brazilian founder, Augusto Boal, it is “A Dress Rehearsal for life”. It is now used all over the world, by all ages and abilities.
We have trained with Augusto Boal and Adrian Jackson, Director of Cardboard Citizens Theatre. We have run Forum Theatre workshops for over twenty years, with schools, community groups and corporate organizations, with council and NHS employees.
Past topics include:
- Improving communication
- Dealing with bullying and anger management
- Responding appropriately to challenging clients
- Working towards equality in the workplace (and school)
- Managing staff
- Promoting positive attitudes
Comments from schools
“It was inspiring… the way it was set out was excellent and it was good we could be more inter-active… and go up and act”
“Magnificent… gave me a chance to say my feelings.”
“It is wise to do this as we will have problems in our life”
Comments from community groups:
“Really helped with our training programme”
“Great fun – so much more useful than power point presentations”
“Thought it would be embarrassing role-play – but it turned out differently. Couldn’t help but get drawn in”
