Role-Play, Embodiment, and Our Histories
Abstract
This chapter examines the use of role-play in applied theatre when the content of the work has deep personal connections to the participants (e.g. actors, community members). Role-play focused on immense community atrocities such as genocide and enslavement can induce traumatic responses in the bodies of players. This chapter explores the complexity of role-play centered on racism, specifically enslavement. The author, an African American woman studying applied theatre, explores the challenges of such role-play work, offers recommendations, and advocates for more recognition of the “full” body experience that may occur in role-play.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Theatre and Performance Studies
Arts and Performance Studies
Diversity and Impact of Dance
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 100–106
- Publication date
- 11 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter