Communicating Development through Applied Theatre

This book is based on an applied theatre project that was carried out with a group of young people in South Africa. Applied theatre in the context of community based theatre is regarded as an artistic medium with the capacity to create transformational learning spaces for young people. It creates an aesthetic space for young people to assess their needs with a view to change their circumstances. The enjoyment associated with such theatre allows young performers and their target audience to be absorbed and transported to other states of being. Once they feel liberated from the fears, constraints and obligations of everyday reality, they are able to suspend their disbelief and explore even the most sensitive issues without consequence. In this way, applied theatre acts as a ‘cool'' medium for young people to participate in shaping their own lives.