Dramatizing Learning, Performing Ourselves

Stories of Theatre-Based Evaluation in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside

Authors

  • Christopher Cook UBC Learning Exchange, University of British Columbia
  • Carolyn Camman UBC Learning Exchange, University of British Columbia
  • Andrew Leyland UBC Learning Exchange, University of British Columbia
  • Suzie O'Shea UBC Learning Exchange, University of British Columbia
  • Angela Towle Academic Director, UBC Learning Exchange, University of British Columbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3138/cjpe.44172

Keywords:

arts-based evaluation, knowledge translation, participatory evaluation, research-based theatre

Abstract

Voices UP!, a play developed and performed collectively with participants from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, illustrates the use of theatre as an innovative evaluation method for data collection, analysis, and knowledge translation. This artful process can convey complex, experiential evaluation findings and create engaging opportunities for learning, while building relationships and skills among participants. In this article we describe the creation process utilized for this theatre-based evaluation project, as well as guiding principles and lessons learned for evaluators who may want to engage in similar theatre-based participatory work.

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Published

2019-04-21

How to Cite

Cook, C., Camman, C., Leyland, A., O'Shea, S., & Towle, A. (2019). Dramatizing Learning, Performing Ourselves: Stories of Theatre-Based Evaluation in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation, 34(2), 255–271. https://doi.org/10.3138/cjpe.44172

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Section

Research and Practice Notes