Legislative theatre/participatory drama
Description
Legislative theatre is one example of using the arts to promote public involvement in relation to service provision.
Potential uses
Legislative theatre can be used to increase interest in local issues and developments, particularly among individuals or target groups that may not engage through traditional methods such as public meetings.
Legislative theatre can assist policy makers in identifying local priorities and consulting on issues and service developments.
How it works
Local people are involved in developing a play that it is relevant to their local area. During performances, the audience is encouraged to participate so that there is interaction and debate.
For example, in Brighton and Hove, theatre was used to promote public involvement in a health improvement programme. Volunteers developed a play detailing the life of a single mother. In the course of the performance, audiences were asked to comment on the issues arising and to suggest changes and initiatives that could make a difference to the mother’s life.
Resources required
Good practice recommends that this process should be part of a wider process of community development and be organised by an agency with access to good local links and networks. The agency organising the process needs to be clear on what they want to learn and what they intend to do with it.
Further information
The following website gives information about the use of legislative theatre in Brighton and Hove
