Applied and Social Theatre

This working group is concerned with the application of drama and theatre to community, educational and therapeutic settings. Interest in the efficacy of theatre-making in such contexts has grown in the last twenty years, raising new questions about the role of universities in shaping social policy and in the wider community. The working group was established to raise questions about the ethics of practice and research in applied and social theatre, and the relationship between practice, research and teaching in this aspect of scholarly inquiry. The working group offers a forum for those engaged in research and practice that is orientated towards social change to discuss the implications of practice, particularly in contexts where they may be cultural outsiders. The working group has a strong interest in work that takes place internationally, as well as recognising the complexity of community.