MTU Crawford College of Art and Design will host a two-day celebration and series of events with internationally renowned theatre practitioner Julian Boal at the end of April. The events will include a book launch of “Theatre of the Oppressed and Its Times” by Julian Boal, and a special talk by José Soeiro, a Portuguese sociologist and politician, who uses theatre to develop policy.
Julian Boal is a pre-eminent, internationally recognised, and well-respected Theatre of the Oppressed (TO) practitioner from Brazil. Theatre of the Oppressed is a form of interactive theatre intended to transform lives as spectators become performers, acting out solutions to social problems. TO has gained global recognition and is practiced in various communities, institutions, and social justice movements.
The events will include:
Friday, 26th April:
- Book launch of Theatre of the Oppressed and Its Times” by Julian Boal in Stack Theatre, Cork School of Music, 5:30 pm. The book explores the transformative power of theatre in addressing social injustices and fostering dialogue within communities. As Julian Boal discusses his latest contribution to this field, members of the public are invited to attend to join in celebrating the culmination of his efforts.
- In addition to the book launch, there will be a talk with Portuguese politician José Soeiro, who will share his insights into the intersection of theatre and activism.
Sunday, 28th April:
- There will be a special performance where Julian Boal will play the role of the” joker” interfacing between the actors and spect-actors, in a Forum theatre play, showcasing the dynamic and evocative nature of theatre in challenging societal norms and fostering dialogue within communities. This will take place in Stack Theatre, Cork School of Music, MTU at 4:00 pm.
The events are part of an ongoing project with Julian Boal and MTU, funded by Irish Aid’s “Innovation Fund” which encourages the development of a deeper connection with the Global South in developing Global Citizenship.
