Theatre creates a safe distance for an audience to reflect on and analyze problematic attitudes and behaviors. The Transforming Theatre Ensemble (TTE) is a new initiative created by the Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives that combines live performance and audience participation to foster dialogue around topics that involve diversity and inclusion in the workplace, classroom and residence halls. The mission of the Transforming Theatre Program and its Ensemble is to advance knowledge, enhance pedagogy, and create an inclusive campus community. This mission is executed by creating awareness around bias and cultural differences and building inclusive leadership skills using non-traditional theatrical forms. The Transforming Theatre Program believes that Michigan State University is populated by some of the most outstanding minds in the world, and TTE taps into that resource for collaborative, experiential learning and problem-solving.
There are four components of a TTE program:
- The first portion of the performance is traditional theatre where actors perform customized sketches that average 15-minutes in length—some longer, some shorter—depicting a small “slice of life” for the audience.
- The second portion is interactive where actors remain in character and the audience, led by a skilled facilitator, ask the characters questions regarding their behaviors and motivations.
- The third portion is small group discussion, where the audience divides into small groups to discuss strategies and tactics to address issues that surfaced during the interactive conversation with actors.
- The fourth portion, called forum theatre, is optional. During this part of the performance, a volunteer from the audience has the opportunity to “role play” a scene with an actor to practice strategies and techniques learned and receive immediate constructive feedback.
Sketches are led by facilitators, skilled at managing conversations about bias and cultural differences. In the safety of a private setting, audiences are encouraged to openly explore the potential short and long-term impact of the issues raised in the sketches and to identify best practices that could effectively resolve problems.
TTE performances can be arranged as independent programs or as part of a special workshop. Sketches can also be tailored to the needs of an MSU unit. For an appointment with the Artistic Coordinator, complete and submit the Transforming Theatre Performance Request.
If you have questions, please contact the Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives at 517-353-3922, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Target Audience: Faculty, administrators, supervisors, students and staff