TfaC Malawi and St Mary's University College UK
In May 2011, two groups of 18 third year students from St. Mary's University College (SMUC), London on work placement. The purpose of the visit was to learn how TfaC applies Interactive Theatre, specifically 'Touch Tag' (a TfaC variation of Forum Theatre) in its work.
The students were treated to a variety of experiences by being exposed to the various programs in the organisation. These students, most of whom were visiting Africa for the first time, staged two performances to a peculiar audience. These were young secondary school students who, despite the language barrier and challenging performance space, were captivated by the physicality and key words in the verbatim drama, 'Turning Poison Into Medicine'. The performance from the ABC team was an introduction of how 'Touch Tag' is used during performances. The performances introduced the students into the work of TfaC and was the climax of the placement experience.
Among the highlights of their experience was where the ABC members (former sex workers) were running Interactive Theatre workshops for the police and military in their barracks. The students were also glad to share their experiences with the performers of the newly established Interactive Radio Programme (Tisinthe!).
Before they started their placement, all the students were asked to make certain commitments on what they wanted to learn or see change in themselves. In the end, they were grateful to have visited Malawi and for the invaluable experience which served as the culmination of their drama course. TfaC is also grateful to the authorities and students in SMUC, who raised funds to buy lighting equipment to support the work of TfaC.