Abstract

Engaging groups in drama is a highly effective way to break down barriers and build resilient teams. This concise book of drama-based exercises will be an invaluable tool for practitioners looking to facilitate conflict transformation and is applicable to a wide range of contexts and client groups. The dramatic problem solving approach is a sequential process, from welcoming exercises and forming agreements, to analysing the root problems and building on trust, culminating in the creation of a piece of drama. Each stage is accompanied by activities and illustrated with examples from the author's extensive experience.

This book will be an innovative resource for any professionals involved in groupwork including youthworkers, teachers, social workers, arts and family therapists, group psychotherapists, psychologists, school counsellors and community leaders.

Steven T. Hawkins is the Founder and Director of Dramatic Problem Solving, which works with communities and groups to help them transform their conflict. He has a PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and a MSEd in Special Education and has worked with a diverse range of client groups and settings across South America. These include an urban squatters community in San Jose, clowning and theatre at SOS villages in Nicaragua, workshops with the BriBri indigenous people and short courses with public schools in rural Costa Rica through the CR Health Ministry. He now lives and works in Tamil Nadu, India.
Steven Hawkins' book provides a highly practical guide to implementing his very powerful facilitation techniques. In this fast-paced 21st century, his writing is to the point, providing just enough theoretical background but emphasizing the 'how to' - I personally have found it to be a valuable manual.
Mohit Mukherjee, Director, UPEACE Centre for Executive Education, United Nations mandated University for Peace (UPEACE)
... if you're a bit of a 'thesp' at heart and thrive on role plays and throwing yourself about in the course of a training exercise, then lay on Macduff . This is your kind of thing... an easy to read, step by step guide.
Special Magazine