Forum theatre

Definition

Forum theatre is a form of interactive drama developed by Augusto Boal that encourages audience participation to address social and political issues. It allows spectators to intervene in the performance, becoming 'spect-actors' who can suggest changes or act out alternative scenarios, fostering a collaborative exploration of themes like oppression and injustice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Forum theatre originated in Brazil as part of the Theatre of the Oppressed, aiming to empower communities to confront societal challenges.
2. In forum theatre, performances often depict a problematic scenario that illustrates oppression or conflict, which is then interrupted to allow audience members to step in.
3. The term 'spect-actor' is used to describe audience members who actively participate in shaping the narrative, encouraging a sense of ownership over the performance.
4. This form of theatre is often used in educational settings and community workshops to stimulate dialogue and promote awareness of social issues.
5. The goal of forum theatre is not just to entertain but to inspire action and provoke thought, motivating participants to create change in their own lives and communities.

Review Questions

• How does forum theatre empower participants to engage with social and political issues?
  • Forum theatre empowers participants by transforming spectators into 'spect-actors' who can directly engage with the performance. This interactive format allows them to suggest changes or enact alternative solutions to conflicts portrayed on stage. As a result, it fosters critical thinking and dialogue about pressing social and political themes, enabling individuals to reflect on their roles within these larger issues.
• Discuss the significance of audience intervention in forum theatre and its impact on traditional notions of performance.
  • Audience intervention in forum theatre challenges traditional notions of passive observation in performances. Instead of merely watching, audience members actively shape the outcome of the story, which creates a dynamic exchange between performers and spectators. This shift encourages deeper engagement with the themes presented, leading to discussions about power dynamics and potential solutions to societal problems.
• Evaluate how forum theatre contributes to social change by analyzing its effectiveness in various community settings.
  • Forum theatre has proven effective in various community settings by creating a space for dialogue around sensitive topics like discrimination and inequality. By involving participants directly in performances, it not only raises awareness but also empowers them to explore and propose solutions. The collaborative nature of forum theatre can build solidarity among community members, making it a valuable tool for initiating social change and fostering resilience within marginalized groups.

Related terms

Theatre of the Oppressed: A methodology created by Augusto Boal that uses theatrical techniques to promote social change and empower marginalized communities.

Playback Theatre: An improvisational form of theatre where audience members share stories, which are then acted out by a troupe, creating a reflective and engaging experience.

Verbatim Theatre: A style of theatre that uses the exact words spoken by real people in interviews or conversations, often focusing on social or political issues.