Research-based Theatre (RbT) is a qualitative, arts-based methodology that invites researchers, artists, educators, and participants to collectively translate and transform research phenomena into theatre. This approach makes use of applied drama and theatre strategies and, at its core, rests on two commitments: a) to honour and ethically explore the research context; and b) to engage and commit to the art form of theatre. This session explores key aspects of RbT and its invitation to bring stories of research to life through theatre.

The Research-based Theatre Lab frequently collaborates with a range of interdisciplinary groups, such as Health Sciences, Education, Engineering, Nursing, to Social Work – each looking to expand and re-imagine their approaches to reaching diverse audiences. In this interactive workshop, we share short monologues illustrating RbT in practice and introductory drama-based exercises designed to inspire and invite collaboration. We will then speak about some of the projects we have been involved in with our partners and discuss learnings that emerged in these collaborative partnerships.