Based on practice and theory developed through Drama for Life (an education centre based at the University of the Witwatersrand, specialising in drama therapy and applied drama) this book addresses the subject of innovative methods for applied drama and theatre practice in African contexts. It does so by providing chapters that share the rich, multi-layered, and reflexive work that has taken place at Drama for Life from 2008 to the present day. It invites the reader to learn from the experiences of Drama for Life as shared by the authors, understand the role it has played and continues to play in advocating for, and extending the work of, Applied Drama and Theatre practice, including Drama Therapy and Playback Theatre, and engage in critical, dialogical spaces to examine and interrogate current debates and practices in the field of Applied Drama and Theatre.
The volume is invaluable for anyone interested in the extensive body of work generated by Drama for Life and its innovative approaches to learning and teaching. It is also of interest for arts therapists, performing arts practitioners, artists, teachers, people in community development and service work; and anyone involved in researching Applied Drama and Theatre practice, particularly in an African context, but also globally.
The authors have all carried out research within the auspices of Drama for Life and reflect on the challenges encountered and the innovations demanded from the various contexts and communities they have engaged with. The book is divided into four parts, covering: the contextualisation and history of Drama for Life; its development of a critical reflexive pedagogy in response to the African context; its vigorous engagement with creative research (beautifully illustrated by professional photographers); and its engagement in public space interventions. Within each part a variety of voices, experiences and approaches are included.
The book is edited by Hazel Barnes, Carol Beck Carter and Warren Nebe, all veterans in the field of Applied Theatre and Drama. Contributors include experienced practitioners, therapists and academics, as well as young researchers who are bringing a fresh perspective to the field.
You can order a copy of the book here: https://www.cambridgescholars.com/product/978-1-5275-7804-3/