ABSTRACT
This chapter furthers the discussion introduced in the previous two chapters by focusing more directly on aspects of interpersonal encounter and engagement within populist interactions. It begins with a discussion of the modes of engagement that populism tends to engender, drawing on scholarly accounts of antagonism and agonism and stressing the potential for performance-based knowledge to enhance such concepts. The chapter gives specific consideration to Chantal Mouffe's call for agonistic pluralism and the fundamental need for respectful engagement across difference. In response, this chapter proposes that agonistic interaction is a key area that might benefit from knowledge of creative performance practices. This point is illustrated through the example of Applied Theatre pioneer Augusto Boal's concept of metaxis, a formulation of political engagement that is akin to agonism but stresses interactive practice. With reference to Forum Theatre, voice and puppetry, the chapter argues that creative performance can instantiate metaxic attitudes toward others and thus enhance the development of agonism.
