How Theatre Can Change the World
Theatre has been an important form of cultural expression throughout human history. It has entertained, educated, and challenged audiences, and has played a significant role in shaping society and the world. Here are some ways in which theatre has changed the world:
1. Reflecting and challenging societal norms
Theatre has been a powerful medium for reflecting the values and norms of society, but it has also been used to challenge and subvert those norms. Plays that deal with social and political issues, such as gender roles, race relations, and economic inequality, can raise awareness and inspire change. “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen, which premiered in 1879 and is considered a landmark work of modern drama for its portrayal of a woman’s struggle for self-determination in a male-dominated society. “Angels in America” by Tony Kushner, which premiered in 1991 and deals with the AIDS crisis, homosexuality, and politics during the Reagan era.
2. Promoting empathy and understanding
Theatre allows us to see the world from different perspectives and to empathize with characters whose experiences may be very different from our own. This can promote greater understanding and compassion for others. “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett, which premiered in 1955 and is based on the real-life diary of a Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II.
3. Preserving cultural heritage
Theatre has been used to preserve cultural traditions and histories, both through performances of traditional plays and through new works that explore and celebrate cultural identity. “Fiddler on the Roof” by Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick, and Joseph Stein, which premiered in 1964 and is set in a Jewish community in Russia in 1905, exploring themes of tradition and cultural identity.
4. Advancing technology and innovation
Theatre has often been at the forefront of technological and artistic innovation, from the use of lighting and sound to the development of new forms of storytelling and performance. “The Lion King” by Elton John, Tim Rice, and Roger Allers, which premiered in 1997 and features innovative puppetry and stagecraft to bring the animals of the African savanna to life. “Hamilton” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, which premiered in 2015 and blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theatre to tell the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton.
5. Fostering community and social cohesion
Theatre can bring people together, creating a sense of community and shared experience. It can also be used to address community issues and promote social cohesion. “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder, which premiered in 1938 and depicts life in a small New England town, exploring themes of community, tradition, and mortality. “The Vagina Monologues” by Eve Ensler, which premiered in 1996 and features a series of monologues performed by women, addressing issues of sexuality, gender, and violence against women.
6. Inspiring political and social change
Theatre has played a role in inspiring political and social movements throughout history, from the anti-slavery movement in the United States to the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa. “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller, which premiered in 1953 and is set during the Salem witch trials of 1692, but is often interpreted as a commentary on McCarthyism and the Red Scare of the 1950s.
7. Educating and entertaining
Theatre has long been a source of entertainment, but it can also be a powerful tool for education. Historical dramas, for example, can bring to life important events and figures in a way that engages and informs audiences. “The Book of Mormon” by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, and Matt Stone, which premiered in 2011 and is a satirical musical that explores themes of religion, culture, and imperialism, entertaining audiences while also making social commentary.
The arts and live performance have played a significant role in shaping society and the world by challenging norms, promoting empathy, preserving culture, advancing technology, fostering community, inspiring change, and educating and entertaining audiences. As viewers of theatre, it is important to reflect more deeply on the shows we see and the impact they can have on ourselves and society. By engaging with theatre that tackles important issues, we can learn, empathize, and be inspired to create positive change in our own lives and in the world around us.
Next time you attend a theatre show, take the time to reflect on its message, themes, and impact. You may just find that it inspires you to make a difference in your own life and the lives of others.
