Augusto Boal
1931 - 2009 | Theatre of the Oppressed
Theatre as a Weapon
Augusto Boal saw theatre not as a show, but as a weapon. Living under a military dictatorship in Brazil, he was arrested and tortured for his art. He developed Theatre of the Oppressed to transform the audience from passive spectators into active "spect-actors," giving them the tools to rehearse revolutions in real life.
Interactive: Forum Theatre Simulator
In Forum Theatre, a scene of oppression is played out. The audience (Spect-actors) can shout "STOP!" at any time, replace the victim, and try a new tactic to defeat the oppressor. Try it below.
Essential Terminology
Boal's term for the audience. They are no longer spectators; they are actors who participate.
A scene is performed then repeated. The audience can step in to change the outcome.
The facilitator (like a referee) who bridges the gap between the actors and the audience.
Using bodies as "clay" to sculpt static images representing feelings or oppression without words.
Performing a scripted scene in a public place without the public knowing, to spark debate.
Try a Forum Theatre intervention
Describe the conflict. Get three Image Theatre or Forum Theatre interventions to test with the group.