The Playwrights Database
LUCIANO IOGNA
Nationality: Canadian
email: Click here to contact Website: Click here
Literary Agent: The Messinger Agency Inc
Luciano Iogna has worked in film and theatre for forty years across Canada and internationally in Brazil, France, India, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the United States; hundreds of projects on four continents in ten different languages with more than one hundred and fifty different theatres, organizations, community groups and educational institutions as an actor, writer, director, dramaturge, designer, producer and teacher. For thirty of those years, he has worked extensively using Forum Theatre and Theatre of the Oppressed techniques with issues and themes as diverse as AIDS and health, poverty, discrimination, workplace safety, sexual abuse and violence - with young children to street youth to seniors; with diverse cultural communities (Indigenous youth, Deaf adults, disabled youth and adults, etc.), women's groups, labour, professional associations, etc. He has been a featured guest instructor at Toronto, Queen's, Mount Allison and Concordia universities in Canada, almost a dozen universities overseas and has led numerous workshops in Canada and abroad. His articles have appeared in Transmissions and Tiyatro Yap?m and he has co-authored the book HAYD? COCUKLAR SAHNEYE (Children to the Stage) with renown Turkish children's theatre critic Nihal Kuyumcu. Luc has been nominated or has won regional, national and international awards for innovative work in film and theatre for his writing, directing and design. Two of his plays for Young Audiences, produced by Toronto's Mixed Company Theatre (SHOWDOWN and HOW CAN YOU TELL?), were nominated for Dora Awards and, along with several other of his plays, have been translated into different languages and produced around the world.
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below is a list of Luciano Iogna's plays - click on a Play Title for more information
10% Reality, The Breaking the Cycle Cinderella 2001 Dire Streets Family? Frozen Dreams How Can You Tell? Just Another Day Life Without Labels Not Out Of the Cold Runaway Dreams Shattered Dreams Shelf Life Showdown Taking Down the Walls Turn On the Lights Turn On the Power! What If ?10% Reality, The
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) for middle and high school students (Grades 7+) and youth on the issue of homophobia - specifically: homophobic bullying - and the cycles of violence through physical, emotional and psychological abuse. the first part of the 10% ReaLITY follows high school student Tanya dealing with her dilEmma of whether to turn against her best friend Sam, who is gay and in need of help. With pressure at home from her traditional Father to peer-pressure at school and her easily influenced younger brother Ricky, Tanya is forced into making critical decisions. the second part of the play allows the audience to explore different choices that various characters could make for a positive outcome.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto High School Tour
2007
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 1 Other: doubling; chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageBreaking the Cycle
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) written to closely examine the sources and symptoms of violence in our society, BReaKING the CYCLe (also available in French) looks at three separate stories in the first part. the first story follows teenaged Vesna as she is emotionally abused by her boyfriend Patrick. the second story is about the psychological abuse of young and pregnant Claire by her manipulative boyfriend Lenny. the final story is a day in the life of Lucy, a wife suffering from the cycle of physical abuse at the hands of her husband John while their daughter looks on. By observing the obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Northern Ontario Tour (Bi-Lingual)
1995
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
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Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 1 Female: 2 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageCinderella 2001
Synopsis:
CINDeRElla 2001, a participatory play, was created to be performed by children aged 5 years and up for their peers and community, but can be eadily performed by professional actors for family audiences (as has been the case in several european productions). It takes the classic CinderElla fairy tale of a young maid who requires magic and a handsome young prince to fulfill her happiness in life, and deconstructs that myth with humour and a feminist perspective. CinderElla repeatedly stops the action of the story to ask the audience for advice on whether there are other choices for her (are there other means for her to make a living rather than through lottery tickets? is she obliged to marry someone she doesn't like - such as the 'goofy' Mayor's Son? or does she need to marry at all?). But she is constantly being forced back into the antiquated stereotype of a woman's place in society and to be a 'good girl' by the story's narrators.
Notes:
CINDeRElla 2001 was written in rhythmic verse for easier line memorization And is A combination of traditional English Pantomime And Popular, Brechtian And Agit-Prop theatre. It can be performed with or without music or with rhythmic voice/beat/accapella. It is A family show for children Aged 5+ And their parents that is both educational And humourously entertaining. Although some characters Are identified As male or female, they do not necessarily have to be played by Appropriate male or female performers (in fact, non-traditional casting is urged) And the choruses can be As large or As small As necessitated - from one Actor to dozens. the use of A facilitator has occasionally been used to help CinderElla deal with Audience interactions And channeling Audience suggestions.
1st Produced:
Perth-Randolph Centre
1998
Organisations:
Mixed Company & Perth-Randolph Centre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
Comedy in verse - with or without music Comedy
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 5 Other: flexible; large chorus; optional facilitator
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDire Streets
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless adults or people having street experience - or being at risk. the first part of DIRe STReeTS is a series of vignettes, poems and comic sketches which reveal characters dealing with issues like loss of financial support, the difficulties faced in the shelter system and the seemingly endless cycle of failure - leading to permanent homelessness. By observing the obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City & High School Tour
2003
Organisations:
Mixed CompanyTheatre/Cobblestone Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 3 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageFamily?
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) written to blend Sweet Medicine Teaching with theatre of the Oppressed methodology, FaMILY? looks at the seven external manipulations (bothersome/exasperrating, sly/cunning, brutal/vicious, sad/melancholy, tormenting/persecuting, anger/rage and the Lord/Queen Tyrant) in separate scenes in the first part. From a two-year old child manipulating their Father for candy to an acoholic mother tormenting her daughter to ultimate control, the audience is taken on a roller-coaster ride of emotions through comedy to tragedy. By observing the oppressions and manipulations that the characters face through emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual levels and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto
1997
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 2 Other: doubling; chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageFrozen Dreams
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless adults having street experience - or being at risk. the first part of FROZeN DReaMS is a series of vignettes, songs and comic sketches which reveal characters dealing with issues from finding affordable housing and work to simple finding a warm place to sit in the winter. By observing certain obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City Tour
2007
Organisations:
Mixed CompanyTheatre/Cobblestone Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 3 Other: doubling; chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageHow Can You Tell?
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition in Notes) for high school students (Grades 9+) and youth on the issue of HIV/aIDS and STI transmissions. the first part of HOW CaN YOU TeLL? follows a young people (angela and David) and their two best friends through their high school years as they explore sexual relationships and deal with the peer-pressures of getting tattoos and steroid use - leading to tragic consequences. the second part of the play allows the audience to explore different choices various characters could make for a positive outcome.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto High School Tour
2002
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
(musical version also available) Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 2 Other: 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageJust Another Day
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless adults having street experience, or being at risk - and their service providers. the first part of JUST aNOtheR DaY follows Glenda, a staff member at a local drop-in centre for the homeless. We watch as she tries to deal with the daily stress of other people's crises. By observing certain obstacles that Glenda and the other characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City Tour
2006
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Drama/Comedy Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 2 Other: doubling; chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLife Without Labels
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) developed with a community that sought to examine stereotypes plaguing it, LIFe WITHOUT LaBeLS is an examination of how teens, seniors and people with disabilities often make assumptions and judgments about each other. the first part of the play is a series of short vignettes, mostly satirical, of recurring characters (representing each group: seniors, teens, the disabled) that victimize others and at other times are themselves victimized. By observing the obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Anne Johnston Health Centre
1999
Organisations:
Mixed Company/anne Johnston Health Centre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Drama/Comedy Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 1 Female: 6 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageNot Out Of the Cold
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless adults having street experience - or being at risk. the first part of NOT OUT OF the COLD is a series of vignettes, songs and comic sketches which reveal characters dealing with issues like loss of housing and financial support trying to deal with the shelters and similar institutional support systems. By observing certain obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City Tour
2005
Organisations:
Mixed CompanyTheatre/Cobblestone Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 1 Other: doubling; chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRunaway Dreams
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless girls or youth having street experience - or being at risk. the first part of RUNaWaY DReaMS follows the story of three young women (emily, Mia and Jackie) and how they are trying to survive after leaving home as teenage girls. Through flashbacks we are shown the various reasons for young girls leaving, escaping or being thrown out of family and home environments. By watching the obstacles the central characters faced and the choices they made, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City Tour
2004
Organisations:
Mixed CompanyTheatre/Cobblestone Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 3 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageShattered Dreams
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created for homeless teens or youth having street experience - or being at risk. the first part of SHaTTeReD DReaMS is a series of vignettes, songs and comic sketches which reveal characters dealing with issues like loss of housing and financial support and the manipulation and betrayal of trust by supposed friends, leading to homelessness and harmful lifestyles. By observing certain obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto City & High School Tour
2003
Organisations:
Mixed CompanyTheatre/Cobblestone Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 2 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageShelf Life
Synopsis:
Forum Theatre play (see definition below in Notes) for audiences of all ages on the issue of intergenerational conflicts. The first part of SHELF LIFE follows a family with 2 teen-aged children and their grandmother as all the family members deal with being judged by their age rather than their individuality, abilities and experiences - within the family and outside in public/societal situations. Seniors are viewed as feeble and incapable of independent living, while youth are perceived as being irresponsible and detached from reality. The second part of the play allows the audience to explore different choices various characters could make for positive outcomes.
Notes:
Forum Theatre is a style of theatre developed with a community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is a theatrical technique for analyzing and exploring alternatives to systemic power and dysfunction within society - not used as personal therapy or psychodrama. Forum Theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the audience and the stage to place the audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. The Forum play (the anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. Then it is played a second time, so the spectator can stop the action whenever they feel a character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, and replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called an intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various alternatives and solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover and form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving and peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum Theatre process. Consequently, Forum Theatre must be carefully facilitated between the audience and actors through a liaison called The Joker.
1st Produced:
Tarragon Theatre, Toronto
30 Nov 2016
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Forum Theatre - Drama
Parts:
Male: 4 Female: 4 Other: doubling 1 m/f
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageShowdown
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) for middle and high school students (Grades 7+) and youth on the issue of bullying and the cycles of violence through physical, emotional and psychological abuse. the first part of SHOWDOWN follows a brother and sister (Drew and ashley) from their family life to their patterns of behaviour at school - leading to tragic consequences. the second part of the play allows the audience to explore different choices that various characters could make for a positive outcome.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto High School Tour
2002
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 2 Other: doubling, 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageTaking Down the Walls
Synopsis:
TaKING DOWN the WaLLS is a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) created to illustrate the difficulties that people with disabilities often have when trying to find work or re-enter the workforce. the first part of the play folows the character Marcia as she deals with ignorant employers, insensitive beaurocracy, family stress and finally her own insecurities. By observing the obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Ontario Tour
2003
Organisations:
Mixed Company/employment accessibility Simcoe
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Drama/Comedy Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 3 Other: chorus; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageTurn On the Lights
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) developed with/for a mixed blue and white collar setting, TURN ON the LIGHTS looks how systemic that inequity pervades the workplace. Gender inequity, racism and sexual harrassment are examined in heir own separate scene. By observing the obstacles that characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Cooper Lighting
1998
Organisations:
Mixed Company/Cooper Lighting
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 2 Other: 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageTurn On the Power!
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) developed with/for a mixed blue and white collar setting, TURN ON the POWeR! looks how systemic discrimination pervades the workplace. Sexual harrassment in an office setting and workplace bullying in a blue-collar site are each examined in their own scene. By observing the obstacles that the characters face and the choices they make, the audience is able to replay these moments in the second half of the show to see if they can discover and examine other options and alternatives to these and similar problems.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Toronto Convention Centre
2005
Organisations:
Mixed Company/Toronto Hydro
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 2 Other: doubling; 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageWhat If ?
Synopsis:
a Forum theatre play (see definition below in Notes) for high school students (Grades 9+) and youth on the issue of drinking/drugs and driving. the first part of WHaT IF. . .? follows 3 young people (couple Melissa and Ryan and their party friend Chris) as they head to a party a few days before prom night. their good time includes alcohol and drugs, despite Melissa's objections. they all make, or are convinced to make, poor choices on their drive home - which lead to tragic consequences. the second part of the play allows the audience to explore different choices various characters could make for a positive outcome.
Notes:
Forum theatre is A style of theatre developed with A community dealing with their particular social/political issue (i.e. Alcoholism, AIDS, violence, etc.). It is A theatrical technique for Analyzing And exploring Alternatives to systemic power And dysfunction within society - not used As personal therapy or psychoDrama. Forum theatre breaks down the imaginary 'fourth wall' between the Audience And the stage to place the Audience member directly in the shoes of the central characters. the Forum play (the Anti-model or worst-case scenario) is played once for the Audience to identify the problems inherent in the issue. then it is played A second time, so the spectator can stop the Action whenever they feel A character has been disrespected, manipulated or oppressed in some way, And replace that character to try to change the situation (this transformation of the Audience from spectators to 'spect-actors' is called An intervention). In this way, the spect-actor can rehearse for the reality of the issue facing their community; role-playing various Alternatives And solutions to the problems posed. As the 'experts', it is the spect-actors who will discover And form realistic options that can then be used by their community - pragmatic problem-solving And peer-education, through the entertaining medium of theatre is the strength of the Forum theatre process. Consequently, Forum theatre must be carefully facilitated between the Audience And Actors through A liaison called the Joker.
1st Produced:
Ontario High School Tour
2008
Organisations:
Mixed Company Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Play/Drama
Parts:
Male: 2 Female: 1 Other: male doubling, 1 'Joker' or facilitator (m or f)
Further Reference:
-
Top of Page