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Research Proposal

This research proposal explores the role of theatre in aiding post-disaster recovery, focusing on its use as a healing and advocacy tool in communities affected by natural disasters, particularly Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. It highlights how theatre facilitates trauma processing, cultural identity rebuilding, and social justice advocacy, while also emphasizing its potential for emotional healing and community resilience. The study aims to inform theatre artists in Southwest Florida about the benefits of incorporating theatre into disaster recovery efforts, especially in light of recent hurricanes.

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Jake Raterman
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13 views2 pages

Research Proposal

This research proposal explores the role of theatre in aiding post-disaster recovery, focusing on its use as a healing and advocacy tool in communities affected by natural disasters, particularly Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. It highlights how theatre facilitates trauma processing, cultural identity rebuilding, and social justice advocacy, while also emphasizing its potential for emotional healing and community resilience. The study aims to inform theatre artists in Southwest Florida about the benefits of incorporating theatre into disaster recovery efforts, especially in light of recent hurricanes.

Uploaded by

Jake Raterman
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Jake Raterman

THE 3560: Ecologies of Performance


Research Proposal

Research Topic: The Role of Theatre in Post-Disaster Recovery

In my research, I will explore how theatre is used as a tool for healing, rebuilding, and
advocacy for communities recovering from natural disasters. Some key examples of this
phenomenon will come from New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, which will be the focus
of the research. Theatre has long been used as a means of processing trauma and fostering
resilience, and in disaster-stricken areas, it can help survivors reclaim their narratives, rebuild
cultural identity, and advocate for systemic change. This paper will examine case studies such as
“The Katrina Project: Hell and High Water” a play in the style of The Laramie Project that tells
the story of Hurricane Katrina through the perspective of several characters from all
backgrounds. Using projects such a this, and other plays and performances, this research will
demonstrate how theatre contributes to long-term recovery efforts, mental health support, and
social justice movements in the wake of catastrophe.
Theatre can play a vital role in post-disaster recovery by contributing to both sustainable
communities (SDG 11) and health and well-being (SDG 3). Performing arts can be used as a tool
for preserving cultural heritage and rebuilding a community’s identity. In addition, theatre
provides a safe space for dialogue and resilience, allowing affected populations to process their
experiences and reconnect with one another. Theatre can serve as a device for emotional and
psychological healing, particularly in addressing trauma after disasters. Through drama therapy
and storytelling initiatives, survivors can process grief, reduce PTSD symptoms, and regain a
sense of hope and belonging.
As a theatre artist in Southwest Florida, an area frequently impacted by hurricanes,
studying the role of theatre in post-disaster recovery is essential for understanding how the arts
can contribute to community resilience. Natural disasters not only cause physical destruction but
also leave lasting emotional and psychological impacts on individuals and communities. By
examining how theatre has been used in disaster recovery efforts, SWFL artists can develop
strategies to support the community in future times of crisis. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian,
there were no examples of theatre being used as a tool for healing, at least in the Fort Myers area.
This research will hopefully shed light on what could have been had theatre artists used their
skills for healing within the area in a time of crisis. Additionally, theatre can be used as a
platform for advocacy, raising awareness about climate change and emergency preparedness.

Cannell, Margo. “Theatre & Sustainability.” Stranded | Theatre & Sustainability,


www.sustainabletheatre.org/narrative/stranded. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025. [This article talks
about how theatre and storytelling can be used for healing in the aftermath of natural
disasters using Hurricane Katrina as an example]

“Katrina A New Musical.” KATRINA a New Musical, katrinamusical.com/. Accessed 18 Mar.


2025. [This website details a production of Katrina A New Musical which was produced in
2019 by Walking on Water productions. It tells the story of Hurricane Katrina through
music and storytelling.]

Marks, Michael, and Mackenzie Westmoreland. “THE KATRINA PROJECT: Hell and High
Water”: Playscripts, 2006. [In the style of The Laramie Project, this play details the events
and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina from the perspective of the NOLA community.]

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