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Josten Exhibit: Theatre of the Oppressed

Events

On view in Josten Library and in Visual Browse

Poster image Theatre of the Oppressed

Published May 13, 2025

Exhibit & Visual Browse

This Visual Browse and Bibliography supports research in POR 302 (Gugliota): “This course introduces students to the theory and practice of the Theatre of the Oppressed (T.O.), conceived by Augusto Boal and inspired by Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed. The class discusses how Boal’s method promotes dialogue as an effective communication tool; when dialogue becomes monologue, oppression begins. The course includes the work of director, performer, and writer Barbara Santos and her feminist perspective of the T.O. In addition to learning about T.O. games, techniques, methodologies, and practical applications, students explore other aspects of Brazilian culture including Capoeira, Afro-Brazilian religions, music, and culinary arts, as they relate to human rights, social equity, the environment, and political power.”

JostenLive!

Simone Gugliota's Theatre of the Oppressed class gave their final class presentations on Josten Library Mezzanine on Friday, May 2, at 4 pm. Professor Gugliota gave a brief introduction on Theater of the Oppressed which was followed by two short performances organized by the students. The audience was invited to participate at the end of each play.

Contact

Marlene Wong, Head of Josten Performing Arts Library
mmwong@smith.edu