Introduction

What is Invisible Theatre?

This form of theatre was developed by Augusto Boal in Argentina as a part of the Theatre of the Oppressed.

It is a form of theatrical performance, which has been planned and rehearsed, and workshopped to include many varied responses. Some improvisation could be required as the performance may be enacted in a place where people would not expect to see a performance ( eg. a shopping centre or in a street ). Often, there are performers disguising themselves and hiding the fact that it is a performance from those who observe or choose to participate. This leads to spectators viewing it as a real and unplanned event.

Invisible Theatre is about showing oppression in everyday life in an everyday setting without letting the spectators be aware of the fact that it is a performance.

What is the purpose of Invisible Theatre?

It seeks to promote awareness of everyday oppression through performances that seem spontaneous, but are well-planned. This theatre may be done in order to help the actors gain more knowledge of what reactions are elicited in different scenarios.