YOUTH THEATRE PROJECT - A PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH USING THEATRE OF THE OPPRESSED IN YOUTH SOCIAL SERVICE SETTINGS

Abstract

Theatre of the Oppressed (TO) is an internationally acclaimed drama pedagogy designed by Augusto Boal which provides a platform for oppressed citizens to unpack structural issues within their own contexts and collectively seek solutions. Extensive literature has exposed the benefits of TO as a tool for safe expression of oppressive stories, increasing critical consciousness and processing solutions within communities. Although its presence within the local context focuses on delivering forum theatre performances within diverse communities, there is a dearth of literature on its direct impacts on beneficiaries within the local social services. This participatory research study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of TO as a group work tool within the local youth social service setting and its perceived impacts on at-risk youths. Utilising an arts-based research approach with elements of participant observation, 9 youth participants under the Guidance Programme were recruited to join the Youth Theatre Project which comprised 2 phases: a 9-session TO workshop and a final Forum Theatre performance put up for an invited audience. Dominelli’s Anti-Oppressive Practice framework was consulted as the conceptual lens to guide the study as its features sit well within TO and the Social Work practice. While the findings of this study correlate with the international studies, they reveal the need for cultural adaptation when working within a multi-cultural, heterogeneous society like Singapore. The study also revealed the importance of acknowledging how the social location of the facilitator and social workers play a crucial role in creating a safe platform for at-risk youths to express themselves, which in turn affect the progress of the group. With that said, the facilitator has to be equipped with the necessary skills to implement this tool effectively and be flexible to make modifications based on the context of the group. Through the findings of this preliminary study, the value of TO within the youth social services is evident and seeks the need for more extensive research to investigate its long-term impacts in local youth social services.