Theatre of the Oppressed

Boal traces and offers his own interpretation of the function of art. Taking his innovative approach into account, explain how Boal defines the purpose of art. In this view, how can different art forms reflect this purpose?

How can art continue to serve as an act of political rebellion? How can Boal’s work be used to subvert other artistic forms and to challenge contemporary expressions of power?

The 1960s and 1970s were a time of great social change across the globe. How does Boal’s form of artistic protest compare to responses in other countries facing significant political and social upheaval at the same time? For example, how might French philosopher Michel Foucault’s work in Discipline and Punish connect to Boal’s Theater of the Oppressed? Alternatively, how might Boal’s response to governmental oppression align with the American Civil Rights Movement?