Theatre and Therapy

Book excerpt: What is the relationship between theatre and therapy? How has this relationship developed over time, with a new contemporary focus on mental wellbeing? How is therapy put on the couch by theatrical performance? Theatre and Therapy explores the evolution of links between theatre and therapy by considering actor training, theatre in therapeutic contexts, and contemporary theatre and performance practice. The book illuminates some of the connections and frictions between theatre and therapy, drawing on a range of examples that includes theatre performance, documentary theatre, solo performance, comedy, method acting and dramatherapy. This concise study traverses some of the changing interactions between theatre and therapy, and in this revised edition, takes into account shifting attitudes and approaches to theatre as a therapeutically inspired practice and tool.