Can theatre be used in environmental governance? the view of environmental professionals in Mexico

Values of local people are often poorly represented in environmental decisions due to power differences. Performance arts-based methods have been put forward as one way to increase the representation of local values and signalling power differences. Environmental professionals’ validation of these methods is essential as they shape the interpretation, uptake, and implementation of environmental decisions in practice, but their views remain largely unexplored. This paper uses interviews and focus groups with environmental professionals in Mexico to explore their views on whether these methods a) open the space to discuss a plurality of values and power differences within local communities; and b) can contribute to environmental decision-making, particularly with respect to their viability, cultural relevance and credibility. We use a case study applying Forum Theatre in two rural communities. Results indicate that performance arts-based methods provide openings for environmental professionals to identify interconnected values beyond single categories, and they have the potential to encourage local people to discuss power differences that constrain their participation in environmental decision making. Results also highlight the importance of preparation and design, as well as rigorous ethical processes to carefully approach specific cultural contexts. Environmental professionals were wary of the methods credibility, partly due to disciplinary conventions that still adhere to positivism. Nevertheless, these challenges also demonstrate the possibilities of performance arts-based methods in fostering transformation and emancipation processes, encouraging local people to influence environmental decisions.