What is Devised Theatre?
Devised theatre is a subset of applied theater, where the performances are created collaboratively by the performers themselves. Typically guided by a facilitating director, these productions utilize improvisation, conversations, and group work to develop an initial outline, which can then be expanded into a full-length production.
The Benifits
Growth and Development
I was blessed to learn devising theatre from ArtStream INC, based in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Their mission is to specifically use artistic practices to enhance the lives of adults living with intellectual or developmental dissabilites (IDDs for short). During their main season (September-May) ArtStream offers opportunities for their actors to use improvisational tools to create 45 minute long musical productions, including full costumes, props, lighting and special effects. Through this production, their actors are able to work on life skills including self advocacy and communication.
Another great resource is the works of Sally Bailey, Professor of Theater and Drama Therapy at Kansas State University. She wrote the book on the subject!
Political Activism
Devised Theatre (and applied theater in general) has a long history with politics. Mostly related to Agusto Bole and "Theatre of the Oppressed," many organizations have used performances to begin dialogues with their audience about the hardships of humanity and solutions to solving them.
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​I am also looking for other organizations that feel devised theater can be used for their causes. How can we use devised theater to help the communities who are suffering in Gaza? How about the citizens suffering under the conservatorship laws in Iran? How about those who want to heal our planet?
The methodology of Devised Theatre can be used to peacefully create and play with the political issues of today.
Education
I used Devised Theatre as an educational tool when I was a public school drama teacher with Fairfax County Public Schools.
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By having the students create the story of their play (instead of "Annie," for the 12th time in a row) the students can practice numerous skills both essential for in and out of the classroom. Besides practicing story organization, character building, and comprehending settings, students are also able to work on collaboration, communication, independent work, and creativity.
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Not only are these tools required for successful adulthood, but they are also educational tools that are loved by the administration and school districts.
