Taming the radical: domesticating Forum Theatre in leadership development

Abstract

Arts-based approaches to leadership development are becoming increasingly popular because of their potential to highlight the symbolic, aesthetic and sensual dimensions of organizing, thus opening up new possibilities for insights and action. However, our study shows that such interventions can also surface complex dynamics and can be co-opted in ways that diminish their more empowering potential. Our focus is on one such leadership development initiative within a UK based education institution focussing on Forum Theatre, a specific form of dramaturgy typically used to challenge structures of power and oppression. We draw on semi-structured interviews with senior level participants and facilitators to ask whether the programme was effective as a means of learning and empowering the participants. Our findings suggest that the co-option of Forum Theatre to serve organizational interests raises significant concerns when it requires a domestication of its more radical potential.