Since the beginning of time, theatre has been used to portray a wide range of social and political views. But can it truly change the minds and opinions of the members of the audience? Can theatre really make a difference in the world around us? Numerous studies have shown that it can, perhaps more than you might expect.

Theatre As a Political Tool

For centuries playwrights have incorporated political views in the plays that they write. This is an effective tool for conveying certain topics to a large number of people in an entertaining manner. A play or musical is likely to stick in people’s minds, pull at their heart strings, and have a real effect on their thoughts and views.

Politicians campaigning for office use theatrical tools to gain voters. It should come at no surprise that politicians are skilled actors. A rousing speech given at a political rally or a seemingly heartfelt monologue in a television commercial can make a politician seem more personable and more dedicated to the causes that voters feel strongly about.

Theatre’s Effect on the Economy

Theatre has an economic impact on a local, national, and global scale. Any form of theatre from a local production to a Broadway show can boost the economy in a variety of ways. From creating jobs to generating income to attracting tourists from out of town and out of state, theatre has a profound effect on economic growth.

Theatre’s Depiction of Social Justice

From the myriad of plays about social justice, there are many that have made a significant impact on society’s view of social justice. The Mountaintop by Katori Hall is an award-winning play portraying a fictional depiction of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night on earth before his assassination. Another example is The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman, based on a series of interviews with citizens of the town of Laramie, Wyoming following the murder of a gay college student.

These are just a few examples of the many theatrical productions that make a statement about social inequality. Theatre has the ability to change people’s minds and hearts. It makes it possible for the members of the audience to empathize with the characters in ways they could not otherwise do. Theatre can make the impersonal suddenly personal.

Access to Theatre for All

Some would argue that theatre only reaches a distinct demographic of people, thus it is unable to change the opinions of the masses. While it may be true that the majority of the people in the United States don’t have the means to attend a Broadway show in New York City, that is not the only source of theatre available. Theatre is all around you in the community, in schools, on television, on streaming apps, and even on social media. Off-Broadway productions of the top-rated shows travel to small towns all over the US, giving everyone the opportunity to experience award-winning theatre that makes statements about social justice.

Local Professional Theatre: An Instrument of Change In Your Own Backyard

Professional theatre is an influential artform in and of itself. Affordable and readily available, A Seasonal professional theatre like the Forestburgh Playhouse provides opportunities for actors, theatre techs, and patrons to portray and experience new and different points of view. Rather than on some far-off stage, local theatre is right in front of you, featuring talent from all over the country as well as young talent from the area. In connecting with these actors and their performances onstage, It is much more difficult to dismiss the opinions and views presented in the theatrical performance.

Attend a local, professional theatrical production. Open your eyes and ears, and in so doing may you open your mind and heart to the plight of others. Only then can theatre bring about real and profound change in the world.

The Forestburgh Playhouse: Local Theatre Opportunities

In the heart of the Catskills, Forestburgh Playhouse is a Professional, local theatre offering a wide variety of shows. The summer 2023 lineup includes Matilda, The Addams Family, Clue, and more. We offer summer educational opportunities for youth who are interested in acting and theatre production. By supporting local theatre you are promoting positive change in your community.

Don’t miss your chance to see any of this year’s amazing shows. Reserve your tickets now.

Theatre As An Instrument Of Change