theatreinformed

Theatreinformed is a term used to describe approaches, practices, and analyses that are informed by theatre theory and practice. It emphasizes applying principles from performance, dramaturgy, and live audience experience to fields beyond the stage to enhance communication, analysis, and engagement.

The term emerged in theatre studies and education in the 2010s as teachers and practitioners sought to transfer theatreinformed methods to classrooms, workplaces, and civic projects.

Core principles include dramaturgical thinking (structuring content like a scene with actors, conflict, and resolution), audience centered design, embodiment and presence, rehearsal as a tool for iterating ideas, and ethical reflection on representation and impact.

Applications are found in education (theatreinformed pedagogy uses performance-based activities to build understanding and collaboration), public deliberation and community engagement (using staged scenarios and role play to explore policy options and values), corporate training (scenario planning and storytelling to support change management), and healthcare communication (empathy and patient centered storytelling).

Reception is mixed; proponents argue it makes complex ideas tangible and inclusive, while critics warn against over-asserting theatre's relevance or reducing art to a method.

Theatreinformed remains a developing concept within performance studies and applied theatre, intersecting with related ideas such as applied theatre, dramaturgy, and experiential learning.