The course introduces students to applied/social theatre, with a particular focus on the “Theatre of the Oppressed,” a theatrical methodology developed by Brazilian director Augusto Boal and widely used in social, educational, and therapeutic contexts. The Theatre of the Oppressed aims to transform the monologue of the stage into dialogue and interaction between stage and audience, in order to collectively and individually explore ways of challenging oppressive social structures. This form of theatre requires specialised acting skills that draw both on realist and epic theatre traditions, combining these seemingly contrasting performance styles. The course also explores how theatre is used in non-theatrical and marginal contexts to support, empower, educate, and activate diverse groups, communities, and individuals. Finally, it prepares students to become facilitators of applied/social theatre, integrating skills from theatre practice, adult education, and social work.

After the successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• understand the use of theatre in social, non-theatrical, and marginal contexts; 
• connect professional theatre practices with social theatre approaches; 
• develop basic facilitation skills for applied/social theatre workshops; 
• respond dramaturgically and performatively to the demands of devised, collective, and participatory ensemble theatre; 
• present a social theatre performance to a public audience;
• develop skills in critical thinking, teamwork, active listening, empathy, and respect for diversity.