A group of 10 individuals with lived experiences at the intersection of trauma, mental health and the
court system, shaped their stories into autobiographical therapeutic performance pieces using movement, improvisation, storytelling, and self-discovery. Their stories were merged into a theater
production, performed by an ensemble of experienced actors from the community.
A goal of the project was the exploration of how individual cognitive executive functioning can be improved via involvement with performance art. The project was a partnership between a community nonprofit organization providing advocacy and support for families, and a local theater company.
Further information is provided in the article: Autobiographical Therapeutic Performance as a
Means of Improving Executive Functioning in Traumatized Adults. On-line Journal: Frontiers in
Psychology – Health Psychology Section – The Psychological and Physiological Benefits of the Arts.
To view the online publication:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.599914