Studio Citadela - Bohnice Theatre Company

Country

Czech Republic

Description

This project combines in an experimental way theatre production and alternative psychotherapy. Its goal is to incorporate a new type of theatre into the company, the so called "social theatre". People with mental health problems are part of its target group as well as the whole society, which is invited watch this artistic activity as a benefit for their own lives.

Aims

To incorporate a new type of theatre into the company, the so called "social theatre". People with mental health problems are part of its target group as well as the whole society, which is invited watch this artistic activity as a benefit for their own lives.

Areas

Education, Leisure, Training

Effectiveness

Quantitative indicator: This project is a small initiative, but it has a major effect.
Qualitative indicator: The project was awarded the prize by Prof. Vondráček in 1993 for apparent improvement of health conditions of many of the clients; positive feedback from the public at performance not only in Prague but also in other cities in the Czech Republic, Belgium, Germany and Poland.

Sustainability

The project is overviewed by experts in the field of theatre.
It is worthwhile to undertake a financial evaluation of participants of project - ex-patients who became after two or three years of drama therapy members of the dramatic ensemble with financial evaluation for work during rehearsal and public performances.
Financial costs are covered by grants.

Innovation

In this project, opportunities for employment of psychiatric patients can be found, who would find it difficult to otherwise enter this kind of exercise. In the style of social theatre, this is a promising new field evolving.

Added Value

The benefit of this project is given through the opening of new perspectives for psychiatric care. In the case where usual psychotherapeutic methods are failing, there is the possibility to apply practices of this project.

Transferability

Methods and approaches used in this project are very usual in professional theatre ensembles and thus can be developed and implemented by every theatre ensemble in every European country. The only basic premise is the fact that the project should be led by theatre creators with empathy and openness towards psychiatric patients. Medical supervision is an essential part of the work in case of acute states.

Mainstreaming Potential

Bohnice theatre company has become an important part of Prague's culture. It performs in the whole of Czech Republic as well as at theatre festivals throughout Europe.

Costs of the Project

The project is financed from grants.

People involved in the Project (number of people and profession)

Experts in theatre, art-therapists (number is not specified).

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Project

The project is characterized by its uniqueness and inspirational aspect. It has a strong dimension social inclusion and de-stigmatisation. Studio Citadela has become a part of Prague's culture. The continuation of this activity in a longer run and its effectiveness are further strengths. A problem may be the financial sustainability.

Contact Person for the Project

Martin Učík
bdscitadela@volny.cz