Psychodrama Therapy - Counselling for the Performing Artiste

Abstract

The founder of Psycho drama, J.L.Moreno used enactment, creativity, spontaneity, sociometry, group dynamics, role theory, and social systems analysis to facilitate constructive change in individuals and groups so that new perceptions and cognitive patterns can develop through better understanding of their roles in life, the ways they interact with others, and things that may be creating challenges or restricting change in their lives. Terms like catharsis, soliloquy, role reversal and mirroring used are relevant to theatrical persons and they can readily understand the approach than an ordinary person. Performers are noted amongst others to ease emotional burdens of others but often, they tend to be under serious emotional strain themselves because of the stressful conditions under which they work. Performing artistes need the services of a counselor. Using psychodrama therapy can help cast and crew deal with their own emotional needs for a better and healthy life. To Moreno, the world is a stage and the Director/ Producer is God. We all enter on this stage at birth and depart at death. As we enter the world, emotional needs are inevitable. Knowing who to go to in order to handle and deal with our emotional strain can make life more meaningful, healthy and enjoyable.