Theatre of the Oppressed NYC partners with communities confronting systemic oppression to inspire transformative action through theatre. Their goals are to build solidarity and awareness; to enable actors to become activists; and to influence policy-making through participatory theatre. Their work is guided by several core principles: that any discussion of a social problem should center the voices of those most affected; that unscripted, live encounters have immense potential for transformative change; and that community-based art and activism can influence policy.

Their work is rooted in the Theatre of the Oppressed (TO) methodology developed by Brazilian artist and politician August Boal, as inspired by Paulo Freire’s book, Pedagogy of the Oppressed. TO provides tools for creating original performances within communities that may not have traditional acting training, focused on activating audiences and directly addressing legislative, systemic, and cultural change. 

Central to Their approach is Their network of Forum Theatre Troupes, created in partnership with direct service and advocacy organizations across the city serving communities impacted by racism, homophobia, the school-to-prison pipeline, over-policing, homelessness, and prejudice due to justice history, HIV/AIDs status, or immigration status. Through these Troupes, communities create plays inspired by their real-life experiences. As part of each performance, audience members are invited to improvise as one of the characters they have seen on stage; creatively brainstorming systemic change. They run between 3 – 5 Forum Theatre Troupes annually, each of which goes through 1 – 2 cycles of creation, rehearsal, and performances. For public performances, we cultivate an audience that includes activists, advocates, legislators, and policy-makers. 

In 2024, TONYC became a worker self-directed non-profit. Their goal is to codify their practice of including members from every level of Their organization in decision making, while providing an opportunity for actors and staff to develop new leadership skills. 

Arts Programming- Theatre of the Oppressed NYC’s (TONYC) main programs are focused on the creation of Forum Theatre, at their program partner sites. These programs rehearse each spring and fall at their partner organizations, and the actors are community members at those locations. TONYC’s current partners programs include The Ali Forney Center, Housing Works, Red Hook Community Justice Center. The Forum Theatre programs perform for the general public or neighborhood community. TONYC also provides workshop and trainings to organizations and individuals interested in applying the tools of Theatre of the Oppressed in their work. 

Community Building- Theatre of the Oppressed NYC has an ongoing volunteer program that coordinates people involved in their practice to join them and their advocacy partners at public programs and community events. 

Space Rental- Theatre of the Oppressed NYC has a mid-town office, with space available for desk rentals or meetings.