Invisible theatre for social change
Currently, our world is confronted with a myriad of societal problems that have the potential to impact individuals and groups on various levels. It is crucial to acknowledge that each country faces its own unique set of social challenges, often influenced by factors such as their stage of development. As we delve into the African continent, we find a region that grapples with a range of social problems. Ethiopia, as one of the countries situated in Africa, is no exception to this reality and encounters a multitude of social crises. These crises encompass issues like racism, warfare, unemployment, housing inadequacies, health concerns, malnutrition, displacement, corruption, gender inequality, poverty, and much more. In order to effectively address these underlying problems, it becomes imperative for society as a whole to undergo a transformative shift in attitude and perspective. Various strategies for social change can be employed as effective mechanisms for identifying the underlying factors contributing to each issue and equipping individuals with the requisite knowledge and competencies to effect self-transformation. One approach that has been utilized to foster social change is through the utilization of the arts, with a particular emphasis on the application of invisible theater. These methodologies seek to probe the fundamental root causes of social predicaments and surmount barriers that are deeply entrenched within society.
Invisible theater, a highly favored form of theatrical expression, holds a distinct place within the realm of theatrical arts due to its unique ability to effectively elucidate ideas. This particular type of theater employs a method known as Invisible Theatre, in which actors meticulously and purposefully enact a prewritten and rehearsed problematic scenario within a public domain, with
the aim of eliciting responses from unsuspecting passersby, who remain blissfully unaware of their participation in this theatrical endeavor.
The primary focus of this research is to delve into the multifaceted ways in which invisible theatre shapes and transforms societies, drawing upon a variety of different cases and instances. By meticulously examining this amalgamation of invisible theater and its potential to effect change within communities, this study aims to shed light on the profound impact it can have on the
everyday lives of individuals. To achieve this, a qualitative research approach will be employed, wherein data gathered from both primary and secondary sources will be subjected to a comprehensive and in-depth analysis.
Alemtsehay Lemma Tadesse
Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
Alemtsehay Lemma Tadesse is a theatre and film lecturer at Addis Ababa University. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Social Anthropology at the same institution. In addition to her academic role, Alemtsehay is also an actress and a practitioner in the arts sector.