ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to reframe Image Theatre (IT) as much-needed continual practice for demechanizing body and thought and introduce some of the fundamental techniques and activities of IT, and highlights some of the techniques’ potentials and limitations across a variety of contexts. IT continues and expands Augusto Boal’s concept of demechanization for actors and non-actors. To practice demechanization, it’s helpful to identify the differences between objective and subjective analysis of an image. Image dynamization, through its multiple stages, continues the process of demechanization and can set up participants for the dynamic interventions required by Forum Theatre. The chapter focuses on the key stages of IT and some of the author's favorite activities that support participants’ demechanization and development of aesthetic language to engage in dialogue theatrically. IT as a stand-alone practice can lead not only to a more demechanized body but also to more inclusive and active dialogue.
