Participatory theatre involves audience engagement, raising ethical concerns about safety and cultural sensitivity. Facilitators must prioritize participant well-being, obtain informed consent, and create a supportive environment while addressing power dynamics.

Cultural awareness is crucial in participatory theatre. Facilitators should foster inclusivity, ensure diverse representation, and adapt content to be culturally appropriate. Ongoing learning and self-reflection help maintain ethical practices in this dynamic form of theatre.

Participant Safety and Well-being

Informed Consent and Boundaries

• Obtain informed consent from participants before engaging in any participatory theater activities
  • Clearly communicate the nature, purpose, and potential risks of the activity
  • Allow participants to make an informed decision about their involvement
• Establish clear boundaries and guidelines for participation
  • Discuss physical, emotional, and personal boundaries with participants
  • Ensure participants understand their right to withdraw or opt-out at any time

Emotional Safety and Support

• Prioritize the emotional safety of participants throughout the process
  • Create a supportive and non-judgmental environment
  • Encourage open communication and active listening among participants
• Provide trigger warnings for potentially sensitive or distressing content
  • Inform participants about the nature of the content beforehand
  • Allow participants to make informed decisions about their engagement
• Conduct debriefing sessions after intense or emotionally charged activities
  • Provide a safe space for participants to process their experiences and emotions
  • Offer resources for additional support if needed (counseling services, helplines)

Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

Inclusivity and Representation

• Foster an inclusive environment that welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds
  • Ensure the space is accessible and accommodating to all participants
  • Encourage active participation and equal opportunities for expression
• Strive for diverse representation in the content, characters, and stories portrayed
  • Include a range of perspectives, experiences, and identities
  • Avoid stereotyping or tokenizing marginalized groups

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect

• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect when engaging with participants and communities
  • Research and understand the cultural context and norms of the participants
  • Avoid cultural appropriation or misrepresentation in the content and performances
• Adapt facilitation techniques and content to be culturally appropriate and relevant
  • Consider language barriers, cultural references, and local customs
  • Collaborate with community members to ensure authenticity and respect

Facilitator Responsibilities

Ethical Facilitation and Power Dynamics

• Recognize and address power dynamics between facilitators and participants
  • Be aware of the inherent power imbalance in the facilitator-participant relationship
  • Avoid exploiting or manipulating participants for personal gain or agenda
• Practice ethical facilitation techniques that prioritize participant autonomy and agency
  • Encourage participants to take ownership of their learning and growth
  • Facilitate open dialogue and critical reflection rather than imposing ideas
• Maintain professional boundaries and avoid dual relationships with participants
  • Refrain from engaging in personal or intimate relationships with participants
  • Seek guidance or support from colleagues if faced with ethical dilemmas

Ongoing Learning and Self-Reflection

• Engage in ongoing learning and professional development as a facilitator
  • Stay updated on best practices, research, and emerging trends in participatory theater
  • Attend workshops, conferences, or training sessions to enhance facilitation skills
• Practice regular self-reflection and self-awareness as a facilitator
  • Examine personal biases, privileges, and limitations that may impact facilitation
  • Seek feedback from participants, colleagues, and mentors to improve practice
• Cultivate a collaborative and supportive network of facilitators and practitioners
  • Share experiences, challenges, and lessons learned with peers
  • Engage in peer supervision or mentorship to receive guidance and support