​*This production received an Honorable Mention at the 2020 Charles Nelson Reilly National Directing Awards.

We All Rise Above
Concept based on Augusto Boal's Forum Theatre and devised by the actors

CONCEPT

Bullying is an incredibly oppressive force. Using Augusto Boal's anti-model, we created scenes of bullying centered on a creative and quiet young man named Adam. The anti-model is an interactive format that presents the oppressive forces, and the oppressed character in need of intervention. Where a traditional model might see the character figure out a path to freedom, this model seeks to engage the audience for this change. Inviting an audience member up on stage, they take a role in the solution of the problem.

*This play was produced at the University of Illinois for the Illinois High School Theatre Festival.

COLLABORATIVE TEAM

Set Design: Elyse Balogh
​Costume Design: Rachel Sypniewski
Lighting Design: Jordan Kardasz
Technical Director: Karl Sullivan
Stage Manager: Matthew Clifford
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SET DESIGN
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We designed the space so that it could move from location to location, though it was centered on a school. Flanking the proscenium with bulletin boards and centering a wagon of lockers, we see the presence of the school in our oppressed character's life. He is followed by the bullying wherever he goes, so elements of the lockers he is pressed against appear in different places, and chairs of the classroom are ever present. 

PRODUCTION PHOTOS