Forum theatre is a non-threatening way of exploring issues using actors directed by the audience. The discussions are informal and within small groups. They do not require participants to act, or standup and address the audience.
A prepared scene, addressing a choen issue, is played out in front of the audience with the action of the drama being stopped at point of conflict. The audience is then invited to take a character and by discussion with the actor is allowed to direct the continuing action of the scene, trying to resolve the issues using their own experience. The process allows the participants to offer up their own opinions as to how conflicts should be resolved or to listen to solutions of other members of the audience. Forum theatre sessions are also an effective and powerful learning tool when incorporated into a training programme.
A number of issues were explored by the PALS project with the Forum theatre and a paper giving more details is available from Rachel Hawley.
Key Learning Points
- PALS policy should be an evolving one with local flexibility
- PALS can't be an add on but needs to be part of the culture
- PALS emphasises the need for joined up working
- PALS service should be proactive not reactive
- PALS should influence the design and delivery of training
- PALS must be sensitive, fair, listen and act
- PALS should be separate to complaints
- PALS needs to demonstrate an overt step change from the patient representative role
- PALS is about learning lessons and shaping services
- PALS is a source of information and independent feedback
Click here for more information on Forum Theatre and the Garnet Foundation
