Exploring masculinities through Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed

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This project seeks to use innovative performance methods to investigate current discourses of masculinity in the UK. My primary aim is to employ interactive participatory theatre practices from Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed (TO) to examine, and intervene in, toxic masculinity. Considering the current socio-political phenomena present not only in the UK but further globally - where sexism, homophobia and xenophobia are rampant - extending our knowledge of normative masculinity is of the utmost importance. Exploring the various tensions arising from traditional models of 'being/doing man' represents a complex issue for scholars wishing to research hegemonic masculinities. The current project offers a novel methodological approach. Together with groups of young men and a Scottish based theatre company, Active Inquiry, I will develop an interactive theatre performance from Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed (TO). By working alongside young men, I aim both to analyse how one can make sense of issues surrounding masculinity and to further explore the value of TO as a means of conducting qualitative research.