Theatre and performance as healing forces – saving the Open Society? A case study of The Workcenter of Jerzy Grotowski and Thomas Richards and Subpoetics performative endeavours as ways of enhancing empathy and building intercultural dialogue in the
Theatre and performance as healing forces – saving the Open Society? A case study of The Workcenter of Jerzy Grotowski and Thomas Richards and Subpoetics performative endeavours as ways of enhancing empathy and building intercultural dialogue in the

Summary/Abstract: In the various versions of democracy’s orientations around the world nowadays, we candiscern cracks, but still not a crucial break from the project of (an) open society. The innerreality of this phenomenon can be deciphered and dealt with in many ways. The two casestudies (The Workcenter of Jerzy Grotowski and Thomas Richards as well as SubpoeticsInternational) analysed in the article, present theatre as healing and pedagogical forces,which can save the core of Open Society. Generally speaking, this can be achieved bystrengthening intercultural dialogue and empathy while applying strict rules of the craft andtechnique. The two mentioned theatre-performance groups present high-functioning varietiesof open society and also focus on the threats and obstacles which may be encountered incontemporary society. Beyond varied activities, the Workcenter and Subpoetics also carry outeducational and workshop-based work connecting people from all paths of life and all aroundthe world, creating an international network, which is both healing and creative. In both casesthey are groups producing works of very powerful physiology and intensity, which seek thehuman truth in troubled times.

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