Social Action Theater (SAT), a student theater/entree troupe begun at University of
Wisconsin -La Crosse in
1993, has experienced a tremendous revival under the tutelage of Bob Krajewski.
The students address diversity, isms, and abuse issues by designing, then
performing audience interactive skits in classes and residence halls at the
University; and in schools, social and business agencies, and churches in the
surrounding region and nationally.
Each semester during the past few years, approximately 60
students earn a one-semester hour academic credit for their SAT participation.
The instructor divides students into groups of six to ten. With input and
feedback from other groups and the instructor, each group brainstorms,
develops, and refines skits during the semester. Students are
encouraged to share their own experiences while developing the scripts and
brainstorming new topics.
Much time is spent practicing, critiquing and revising skits
as students prepare for performances. They often play roles that are not
necessarily congruent to their personalities, which allows them the opportunity
to experience life from a different perspective--sort of 'walking in
someone else's shoes.'
The spontaneous nature of the skits brings a fresh feeling to
the performances. Skits are short, usually 2-4 minutes in
length, and are followed by an interactive discussion session, where audience
members are encouraged to ask questions of the actors who answer while staying in their
respective roles.
Thus there is immediate feedback and audience involvement. Presentations
and interaction/feedback sessions often are therapeutic, helping both students
and audiences to process their feelings after the performance.
Initially, SAT originated to educate UW La Crosse students and
staff about diversity issues. Under Krajewski's guidance, the current
emphasis is on training and developing students to be more effective in advocating change and acceptance. Further emphasis includes
expanding the sphere of influence by reaching wider audiences. Through Krajewski's networking, SAT has performed in majority and minority schools in the
D.C. area, Milwaukee, Memphis, Chicago, Nashville, Birmingham, Atlanta, Santa
Fe, Seattle, Minneapolis, Tuscaloosa, Louisville, and even China. When we acquire a
solid funding base we
will be better able to accomplish our goals through continued community
involvement as well as by seeking new venues.
Students involved with SAT spend a lot of time and energy
working on developing and performing their skits. Each semester new
students enroll, complemented by a small core of continuing students who act as
guides/mentors. Thus, the group is continually evolving, ensuring both
continuity and freshness of ideas for skits to present and audiences to whom
they present.
The beauty and worth of Social Action Theatre is its own
diversity in terms of student background, vocational aspirations, gender, etc,. And the instructor uses that diversity as strength to help students learn and
grow.
Thank you for your interest in Social Action Theatre.
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