The line between watching theatre and participating in it is to be blurred in a new Forum Theatre event soon to take place in Malta.
An innovative stage technique created by influential Brazilian theatre practitioner Augusto Boal, Forum Theatre allows spectators to engage with a performance, and influence, change or even stop it if they wish. As one of the primary forms of Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed, Forum Theatre is often used as a means of promoting social and political change and to explore solutions to the oppression featured within the performance.
In Flourish from Oppression, Forum Theatre will be used for the first time on the island to explore a variety of scenarios relating to the LGBTI community. Creating a safe, contained space for like-minded individuals from both the LGBTI community and the general public to integrate and build relationships, the event will explore the intersections between sexuality, gender identity and religion.
"Exploring issues creatively is always important, in any community," says Jacob Piccinino, who will be facilitating the Flourish from Oppression Forum Theatre event. "It helps us to understand perspectives and difficulties in a healthy and dynamic manner. When talking about LGBTI issues, we may tend to rationalise too much or misunderstand the challenges that this community may face. Forum Theatre will provide a platform to offer members of this community more empowerment, in a fun way."
Organised by Drachma - a LGBTI group largely inspired by the Roman Catholic faith, values and spirituality - Flourish from Oppression is one of three events in a project intended to highlight the realities of members who have felt oppressed or became outcasts from their Church or community in order to come out.
Apart from the Forum Theatre event on 16 March, the project also includes a session about the perils of conversion therapy on 1 March, facilitated by Fr Rene Camilleri and Dr Nicholas Briffa, and a discussion about the Boy Erased book and film on 1 March, followed by a screening of the film on 2 March in collaboration with Allied Rainbow Community (ARC) and Eden Cinemas.
Anyone who wishes to take part in this unique and innovative Forum Theatre event may apply by sending an email to [email protected] or by calling on 7925 3875.
The Flourish from Oppression Forum Theatre event will take place from 9am to 6pm on Saturday, 16 March at Marsaxlokk Youth Activity Centre, St Francis Street, Marsaxlokk. Since safety is key, all applications will be subject to an informal screening process. This project is supported by Arts Council Malta - Malta Arts Fund.