Theatre of the Oppressed NYC has established "popular theatre troupes" all over New York City which devise and tour original, interactive plays inspired by real-life struggles. Each troupe creates one to two shows a year which are performed in theatres, community centers, shelters and drop-in centers; and at conferences and festivals including TONYC's own annual Legislative Theatre Festival, and use Theatre of the Oppressed as a medium for communal problem-solving around the issues of homelessness, joblessness and related discrimination.
TONYC is a non-profit organization that uses theatre to inspire transformative action in communities confronting systemic oppression. TONYC partners with communities to create participatory theatre experiences that build community, solidarity, and awareness; enable actors to become activists; and influence policy-making.
TONYC was founded in 2005 by a group of theatre artists who were inspired by the work of Augusto Boal, a Brazilian theatre practitioner who developed the Theatre of the Oppressed. TONYC's work is based on Boal's belief that theatre can be a powerful tool for social change.
TONYC has worked with a variety of communities, including homeless youth, immigrants, and people with disabilities. TONYC's work has been praised for its authenticity, its power, and its ability to challenge audiences.
In addition to its theatre productions, TONYC also offers a variety of educational and outreach programs. These programs are designed to help people develop their creative talents, and to raise awareness of the issues that they face. TONYC's work has had a significant impact on the lives of people, and it has helped to change the way that people think about oppression and social change.
TONYC is a valuable resource for the New York City community. The organization is working to create social change through theatre, and it is helping to make a difference in the lives of people. If you are interested in helping to make a difference, please consider supporting TONYC.