Delineating Aesthetic and Educational Aspects of Theater of the Oppressed Using John Dewey’s Ideas

John Dewey thought that the mission of philosophy was social change, and the desired change could be achieved through education. Human growth is perpetual, and so education should not be limited to a specific period of life, rather it should be a part of the process of life. The class and school years always come to an end eventually, however, the influence of social educational institutions must be continuous. Cultural and artistic measures such as applied theaters are useful educational tools that can have a great effect on the moral growth and social life capabilities of the citizens. Augusto Boal developed the idea of the Theater of the Oppressed (TO) to reach the starting point of change in life. TO provides an opportunity for people in society to express their inner desires. Here, certain situations similar to reality are created, where the audience is allowed to practice and experience life, without having to endure losses and lose opportunities. This study was mainly based on secondary research using existing fundamental works on Dewey’s aesthetics and education philosophy, aiming to provide applied research for empowering Theater of the Oppressed (TO) and presenting solutions to increase its function. After a review of TO, the theater of the Rainbow of Desire was explored in a special section, showing that it is possible to improve the mental health of the spect-actors by creating sympathy among them and encouraging them toward expressive actions.