13.1 Roles in Applied Theater and Social Change

Applied theater uses performance to spark social change. This section explores the diverse roles within the field, from facilitators and directors to therapists and researchers.

These roles require unique skills like adaptability, community engagement, and creative problem-solving. Understanding these career paths helps aspiring practitioners find their niche in applied theater's transformative work.

Leadership Roles

Facilitating and Directing Applied Theater

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  The Four Stages to Building True Community View original

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  Frontiers | Toward a Psychology of Social Change: A Typology of Social Change View original

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  Social and Political Change – Introduction to Community Psychology View original

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• Facilitators guide participants through the creative process, helping them explore issues, develop skills, and create meaningful performances
• Directors oversee the artistic vision and practical execution of applied theater projects, working closely with participants, collaborators, and communities
• Teaching Artists combine their artistic expertise with educational skills to lead workshops, classes, and projects that use theater as a tool for learning and growth (Augusto Boal's Theater of the Oppressed)
• Community Organizers use applied theater techniques to engage communities in dialogue, action, and advocacy around social issues that affect them (Sojourn Theatre's community-engaged projects)

Key Skills for Leadership Roles in Applied Theater

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust, facilitate dialogue, and navigate complex group dynamics
• Adaptability and flexibility to respond to the needs and interests of diverse participants and communities
• Deep understanding of the power of theater as a tool for social change, education, and personal growth
• Ability to design and lead engaging, inclusive, and transformative theater processes that align with project goals and participant needs (devising, improvisation, storytelling)

Therapeutic and Support Roles

Dramatherapy and Social Work in Applied Theater

• Dramatherapists use theater techniques as a form of psychotherapy to help individuals and groups address emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges (role-play, embodiment, projection)
• Social Workers in applied theater settings provide support, advocacy, and resources to help participants navigate personal and systemic challenges that arise through the creative process
• Arts Administrators handle the logistical, financial, and organizational aspects of applied theater projects, ensuring that programs are well-resourced, sustainable, and impactful

Key Skills for Therapeutic and Support Roles

• Knowledge of psychological theories, therapeutic techniques, and best practices in mental health and social work
• Ability to create safe, supportive, and inclusive spaces that foster healing, growth, and empowerment
• Strong organizational, administrative, and fundraising skills to develop and sustain applied theater programs (grant writing, budgeting, partnership building)
• Commitment to ethical practice, cultural competence, and social justice in all aspects of applied theater work

Research and Advocacy Roles

Researching and Advocating for Applied Theater

• Researchers study the impacts, best practices, and theoretical foundations of applied theater, contributing to the field's knowledge base and evolution (ethnographic studies, program evaluations)
• Policy Advocates use research findings and community input to lobby for policies, funding, and support that advance the field of applied theater and its social change goals
• Playwrights create original works that explore social issues, give voice to marginalized perspectives, and inspire dialogue and action (Anna Deavere Smith's documentary theater)

Key Skills for Research and Advocacy Roles

• Strong research design, data collection, and analysis skills to rigorously study applied theater practices and impacts
• Ability to communicate research findings in clear, compelling, and accessible ways to diverse audiences (policymakers, practitioners, communities)
• Deep understanding of the policy landscape, advocacy strategies, and power dynamics that shape the field of applied theater
• Creativity and critical thinking skills to develop innovative, thought-provoking, and socially engaged theatrical works that push the boundaries of the field (verbatim theater, participatory performance)