Anti-racist Strategies in Dramaturgy

This panel will offer robust discussion of some of the most pressing issues in theatre’s move towards a decolonised model, as outlined in the open letter ‘We need to talk about dramaturgy’ (circulated in March 2021).

The letter outlines both the existence of explicit racism in dramaturgical relationships, as well as the more nuanced, covert ways in which imbalances of power are created and maintained. This discussion will therefore explore developments in dramaturgy that can support a more authentic inclusive creative practice, to help the sector move consciously and confidently beyond the narratives, forms and epistemologies of the Eurocentric canon.

In considering their own experiences of best (and worst) practices in both institutional and freelance settings, this panel of theatre-makers and dramaturgs will address topics such as voice, appropriation and ‘risk’, and expand on their vision of what they’d like to see happen next in the industry.