After attending the training course “Through the Colours of the Oppressed,” a group of Lithuanian participants gathered local youth for an engaging and interactive workshop focused on the Theatre of Oppression. This powerful session introduced participants to the concept of oppression through movement, body awareness, and creative expression, allowing them to explore social issues in a unique and accessible way.
The workshop, titled “Exploring Theatre of Oppression through Movement and Image Theatre,” aimed to introduce young people to the concept of Theatre of Oppression through a series of interactive group activities. By focusing on creativity, self-expression, and reflection, participants were able to engage in thought-provoking exercises that shed light on complex issues related to oppression and inclusion.
The primary goal of the workshop was to create a deeper connection among participants, encouraging both body and mind awareness while tackling important social topics. The Theatre of Oppression, a technique pioneered by Brazilian theatre practitioner Augusto Boal, empowers participants to explore, express, and challenge oppression in its various forms. Through this workshop, youth were able to reflect on real-world challenges and gain a greater understanding of the impact of oppression on individuals and society.
How the Workshop Was Conducted
Group Introduction (Icebreaker):
The workshop began with a light-hearted Names Game to help participants get to know one another and build a sense of camaraderie. Standing in a circle, participants took turns calling out each other’s names and switching places, setting the tone for an energetic and engaging session. This was followed by gentle body movement exercises to help everyone loosen up and prepare for the activities ahead.
Warm-up (Prepare Body and Mind):
To further warm up both physically and mentally, participants took part in a Dance Circle. With music playing in the background, one participant led by performing a movement, while others followed along. The lead was passed around the circle, creating a dynamic sequence of movements that fostered creativity and collaboration among the group.
Museum of Oppression (Main Activity):
The core of the workshop focused on the Image Theatre technique, a powerful tool from the Theatre of Oppression. Participants were divided into two groups, with one group tasked with creating “sculptures” that represented words related to oppression, such as “exclusion” or “discrimination.” The other group observed and analyzed these sculptures, offering interpretations of the powerful images. Afterward, the groups switched roles, giving everyone a chance to engage in the exercise.
Reflection (Closing Activity):
To close the session, participants gathered in a circle for a reflective discussion. This open-ended reflection allowed everyone to share their thoughts, experiences, and insights from the workshop. Many participants highlighted how the exercises deepened their understanding of oppression and helped them reflect on ways to foster inclusion in their own communities.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop
The “Exploring Theatre of Oppression through Movement and Image Theatre” workshop successfully achieved its objectives of fostering connection, self-expression, and a deeper awareness of oppression. Through the use of image theatre and movement, participants were not only able to understand oppression on a conceptual level but also reflect on its presence in everyday life. The workshop created a safe and supportive environment where young people could challenge themselves creatively and intellectually, making it a meaningful and impactful experience for everyone involved.
As the Lithuanian participants bring back what they learned from the “Through the Colours of the Oppressed” training course, this workshop stands as a testament to the power of theatre as a tool for social change. By empowering youth to engage with these important issues, this workshop has laid the foundation for further discussions and actions toward a more inclusive and just society.
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