Carleton University's Sociology and Anthropology Department, in collaboration with the Glebe Collegiate Institute, presents Theatre of the Oppressed: The stereotypical notions of gender, race, and sexuality among young Canadians. This event encourages undergraduate students, high school students, and the broader Ottawa community to critically think about the relation of gender, race, social class, age, ability, and sexuality among young Canadians. Recognizing how gender relations in mainstream society is generally perceived, it can be difficult for young people to express themselves while encountering misconceptions about their personhood.

As a way to express student learning, and build confidence in young people, both Carleton undergraduate, and Glebe high school students have put together two plays, while keeping in line with the “The Theatre of the Oppressed” model, by Augusto Boal. These two sets of plays will highlight discrimination and social oppression young people face in a Canadian social climate.

Theatrical themes
“The Misguided Councilor”

The subtle and overt racial discrimination that racialized Canadian youth encounter within high schools.

“The Rumour Mill”

Young people’s struggle to express their sexuality in a heteronormative society

Characters in the play are not based upon and do not represent, any real person(s). These characters were created to provoke uncomfortable experiences and challenge guests thinking around these social issues. This play does not depict any student or faculty at Glebe Collegiate Institute or Carleton University.

Theatre of the Oppressed is a dramatic game in which a problem, or symptom of oppression, is shown in an unsolved form. The dramatic action revolves around a selected issue of social inequality; it involves visible oppressors and protagonists who are oppressed. The “Theatre of the Oppressed” performance will be an interactive piece that allows the audience to get involved, as an attempt to STOP THE OPPRESSION! At certain points during the plays, audience members will be encouraged, positively, to replace one of the existing characters within the plays in the hopes of creating a learning experience, and a positive outcome. The only characters who are not allowed to be replaced are the oppressed character and the character who is identified as the oppressor.

The event will be held on Friday, May 3rd at Dominion Chalmers Theatre (355 Cooper St, Ottawa, Ontario). Doors will open at 5:00, showtime begins at 5:30 pm and the performance will conclude at 8 pm.

Following the last performance (8 pm to 8:30 pm), there will be a panel discussion. Guests will have the opportunity to ask the performers and theatre directors question about the development of the play. This serves to build confidence in our young people!

This event is a FREE event for students and community members!

The arts are a medium for exploring and understanding human and social conditions. As such, they are curriculum areas where students may encounter a difficult subject matter. They may also be challenged to consider viewpoints that differ from personal perspectives and/or social norms. The staff at Glebe Collegiate Institute believes that students should engage in critical thinking and deep inquiry. We work hard to allow students to gain insight via the gathering and analysis of relevant and credible information. We also work hard to ensure that we respect and honour the lived experiences of our diverse student population. As such, we understand and expect that students may sometimes encounter material that is potentially upsetting or disquieting. We strive to create spaces of emotional and intellectual security and acceptance so that students may engage in the risk-taking required for learning and growth while also feeling supported and safe.

Trigger Warning:
This play contains coarse language and mature subject matter. It may not be suitable for those 13 years or younger. Please be advised that some of the content may potentially be offensive, challenging and/or upsetting.

Light refreshments will be provided, and there will be opportunities to network.

Directors and Course Instructor:

Carleton University, Sociology P.h.D Candidate and Course Instructor: Warren Clarke
Glebe Theatre Arts Director: Deborah Grinnell
Toronto Theatre Arts Director: Troy Crossfield

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