Staging Truth to Invite Dialogue: Elements of Group Work in Documentary Theatre Talkbacks

ABSTRACT

This article explores how audience reactions to documentary theatre performances about mental health can be transformed into a meaningful group experience through a facilitated “talkback.” A talkback is a period after a performance when audience members talk to the performers and each other about what they just saw and how they connected to it. The article examines how talkbacks demonstrate therapeutic factors such as interpersonal learning and group cohesiveness. It also explores the challenges inherent in running a talkback and what traits talkback facilitators must possess to successfully navigate the group dynamics of these talkbacks. Suggestions for integrating both talkbacks and documentary theatre techniques into group work practice will also be shared.

KEYWORDS:

• Audience
• documentary theatre
• group work
• mental illness
• talkbacks