The Potential of Theatre of the Oppressed in Fostering Critical Consciousness Among Gay, Bisexual and Queer Men

Background and Purpose

Given the vulnerable position faced by gay, bisexual, and queer (GBQ) men in Singapore, there is an opportunity to explore interventions that can significantly impact and empower them, providing a sense of community and strategies to navigate their daily challenges. With its emphasis on critically engaging tools in group work settings, Theatre of the Oppressed (TO) offers a robust approach that could potentially pave the way for the adoption of applied theatre interventions within local social service settings, particularly those serving the LGBTQ+ population. This research thus endeavors to scrutinize the impact of TO on the levels of critical consciousness among GBQ men in Singapore using a mixed-method design.

Methodology

Utilizing a mixed methods design, the study concurrently employs quantitative and qualitative methods to assess shifts in critical consciousness among eight participants who engaged in a five-session TO workshop. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest framework was utilized for the quantitative aspects while arts-based methods and focus group discussions were employed to qualitatively explore participants' perceptions of the modality.

Results

Through triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data, the findings revealed significant outcomes, including the development of a stronger support network facilitated by the homogeneity of the participant group, heightened levels of critical reflection, and an enhanced appreciation for the transformative potential of theatre in group settings. In addition to uncovering these transformative outcomes, the study sheds light on the dearth of platforms available for the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore and the pressing need for spaces that facilitate supportive dialogue and community building. The participants' expressed desire to create further conversations within their community underscores the importance of initiatives like the TO workshop in addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Singapore and beyond.

Implication and Conclusion

This research underscores the importance of incorporating arts-based methods in social work practice and research, advocating for their continued exploration and integration into therapeutic interventions and academic inquiry. By shedding light on the transformative power of TO and its implications for social work practice, this study contributes to a growing body of literature on innovative approaches to promoting social justice and empowerment among marginalized communities.

In conclusion, this study contributes to a growing body of literature on innovative approaches to promoting social justice and empowerment among marginalized communities. By illuminating the transformative power of TO and advocating for the integration of arts-based methods into social work practice and research, this study offers valuable insights into the potential of creative interventions to foster critical consciousness and facilitate positive social change.