Born in 1931 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Augusto Boal was an influential theatre director who developed the concept of "Theatre of the Oppressed" to transform theatre into a dialogue between audiences and performers. He experimented with letting audiences stop performances to suggest changes or demonstrate alternatives on stage. Though controversial, his work aimed to make theatre accessible to more people and give voice to the oppressed. Boal also worked as a politician and continued developing workshops to use theatre as a tool for building confidence and communication skills.

9. The people that Boal has influenced........ Teachers Audiences General Publie Writers Set Designers Lighting Costume

10. Group 9’s personal opinion on Augusto Boal.... “ From what little I’ve seen of Augusto Boal’s work, I think that his main aim is to actively link the audience and cast, which I like and find that it makes the performance more lively and gives the audience a chance to participate and comment and in some cases improve the performance.” Libby Nolan “ I think at the time when Boal first created his theatre of the oppressed it must have been a huge shock to his community and the Brazilian government at the time. Nowadays however, which is somewhat down to Boal, this is normal throughout many theatre companies and dramatic societies. Personally I think that it would be very beneficial, particularly to the actors if at the end of the show the audience did give their opinion on the show and how to make it better. But I don't agree with all aspect of Boal's teaching's, I think the audience stopping a performance halfway through to give their opinion is unnecessary, and would put the actors off rather than pointing them in a new direction.” Laura Mulholland

11. “ I’m glad our group has looked at Augusto Boal, because he has had a big affect on theatre throughout his life. He has turned theatre around so it is not just about the actors but the audience and has taken away this barrier of ‘the stage’ and ‘the auditorium’. I know that what he has done is sure to inspire us in the future.” Kirsty Nicol