Forumteater - solving conflicts with forum theatre
Forum theatre is a form of gathering and debate that specifies current problems
Forum theatre is an interactive form of theatre, that is used to find or practise solution models for problems that have reached deadlock. The operation of Forum theatre is based on the idea that awareness of the problem gives new choices and that there are always several solutions to the same problem.
Forum theatre is a form of gathering and debate that specifies current problems. Therefore, debate is more important in this process than reaching final solutions ñ recognition arrived at during the process will be a goal in itself. We assume that successes will solve themselves and we therefore concentrate on things that do not succeed. This form is ideal for use in conflict filled groups, as all those present are actively involved in finding specific and workable solutions. The method removes focus from acting performances and displaying each participant.
The aim is for the participants to formulate together different specific solution proposals.
Specific cases are typically described based on the action patterns of different characters and the current problem. The criterion for successfully carrying out the Forum theatre game is bound up with the sense of security and the tone used within the group. For this reason, thorough and professional instruction of the game is crucial, so that nobody feels on display or put upon. The participants are thoroughly instructed about the characters, so that they are capable of performing dialectically ñ this means that they can change their behaviour, if the solution proposal asks for this. E.g. a person that usually gets told off by colleagues can certainly change his behaviour, if he is spoken to in a positive way.
The theatre form is ideal for focusing on:
• Bullying in the workplace
• Stress
• Changed working conditions and routines
• Resistance towards new colleagues
• Lack of communication and co-operation
