The new edition of Playbuilding as Arts-based Research details how playbuilding (creating an original performative work with a group) as a methodology has developed in qualitative research over the last fifteen years.
The second edition substantially updates the award winning first edition by making connections to current research theories, providing complete scripts with URL links to videos, and including a new section with interviews with colleagues. Chapter 1 provides an in-depth discussion of the epistemological, ontological, axiological, aesthetic, and pedagogic stances that playbuilding takes, applying them to research in general. The value of a playful, trusting atmosphere, choices of style, casting, set, and location in representing the data, and pedagogical theories that guide participatory theatre are highlighted. Chapter 2 discusses how Mirror Theatre generates data, structures dramatic scenes, and conducts live and virtual participatory workshops. Chapter 3 is a thematized account of interviews with 23 colleagues who employ variations of playbuilding that show how playbuilding can be applied in a wide range of contemporary contexts and disciplines. Chapters 4 through 9 describe six projects that address topics of drinking choices and mental health issues on campus, person-centred care, homelessness, the transition to university, and co-op placements. They include both a theme and a style analyses and workshop ideas. Chapter 10, new to this edition, concludes with quantitative and qualitative data from audiences attesting to the efficacy of this approach.
This is a fascinating resource for qualitative researchers, applied theatre practitioners, drama teachers, and those interested in social justice, who will appreciate how the book adeptly blends theory and practice, providing exemplars for their own projects.
About the Author: Joe Norris, Professor Emeritus, Brock University, Canada, is recipient of the 2015 Tom Barone Award for Distinguished Contributions to Arts Based Educational Research from the Arts Based Educational Research SIG of the American Educational Research Association.
Kevin Hobbs, a PhD student at Western University, Canada, received the 2019 ARTS Graduate Research Award from the Canadian Society for the Study of Education's Arts SIG.
Mirror Theatre is a participatory theatre company that works in educational and community settings to advance our understanding of social issues through storytelling and improvisation. It is volunteer-driven and run by theatre professionals, students, and scholars in education, health care, research, and applied theatre. See www.mirrortheatre.ca.
