Augusto Boal was a Brazilian theatre director, writer, and politician. He was born on 16th of March, 1931, and died on 2nd of May, 2009. He was 78 when he passed away.
Early Life
Boal was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city in Brazil. He studied in Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and got a degree in chemical engineering. He was interested in theatre in his young years, so after he got his master degree and graduated, he went to New York and studied at school of Dramatic Arts in Columbia University. After he graduated, he was asked to return to Brazil so he could work at Arena Theatre in São Paulo.
While he was working at the Arena Theatre, he gained a lot of knowledge and directed a lot of plays, which became very popular.
The Birth of Theatre of the Oppressed and 'Spect-Actors'
Boal created Theatre of the Oppressed, which became very famous and popular among theaters. Also in the play, the audience could express their thoughts on the play, and they can change the way the play goes anytime they want, and however they want to. These audiences are called 'Spect-Actors' (spectators + actors). Anyone could stop the play, and tell the actors how they want the play to be, and suggest ways for the actors to play under oppression. The play will then be continued the way the 'Spect-actor' wants it to be.
To read more about Theatre of the Oppressed, click here.
The Exile
Boal's play caused attention to the Brazil military, and they think that this is a threat to their country. So one day, when Augusto Boal was walking home from the theatre, he got kidnapped, tortured, and got sent off to Argentina.
The Return
After the exile ended, Boal returned to Brazil in 1986. He then performed Theatre of the Oppressed to oppressed cities and people, for example racism. Lots and lots of people supported him and he won many awards. From best director awards, to best playwright awards. He became very famous, and started doing tours and workshops around the world to share his work.
Death
Boal died of a respiratory failure since he was battling and suffering from leukemia for a long time.