Imagine sitting in a darkened theatre, the lights dim, the hushed murmurs of the audience fading as the curtain rises. A character steps forward, their voice trembling with emotion, their story unfolding before you. In that moment, you are no longer just a spectator—you are inside their world, feeling their struggles, their triumphs, their heartbreak. THIS is empathy and understanding. THIS is the magic of theatre: its unparalleled ability to make us feel deeply, to walk in someone else’s shoes, if only for a few hours.
Theatre has been a cornerstone of storytelling for centuries, and its impact on human connection cannot be overstated. More than mere entertainment, it is a powerful medium that fosters understanding and empathy, offering audiences a glimpse into experiences far removed from their own. Whether tackling issues of race, identity, love, loss, or social justice, theatre brings us together and challenges us to see the world through a different lens. And today, more than ever, we surely need that!
Stepping Into Another’s Experience
One of the most profound aspects of theatre is its ability to humanize stories that might otherwise be statistics or headlines. A play like The Laramie Project by Moisés Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project, which explores the aftermath of the brutal murder of Matthew Shepard, does more than just recount events—it immerses the audience in the grief, outrage, and hope of those affected. Watching actors embody real people who lived through such a tragedy fosters an intimate connection with their pain and resilience, making it impossible to remain emotionally detached.
Similarly, while Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton might not be the President’s cup of tea (see our most recent blog post), it is important to remember that the show reimagines history through hip-hop and a diverse cast, allowing audiences to see the Founding Fathers in a way they never have before. By presenting these historical figures as immigrants and revolutionaries who fought for a better future, the musical makes their struggles feel urgent and relatable. It reminds us that history is not just about names in textbooks—it’s about real people with real emotions, dreams, and flaws.
Theatre as a Mirror to Society
Great theatre holds a mirror up to society, reflecting our strengths, our failures, and the nuances of human nature. A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, for example, dives into themes of racial discrimination, economic hardship, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Seeing the Youngers struggle against systemic barriers not only educates audiences about historical racial injustice but also encourages reflection on present-day inequalities.
On the other hand, musicals like Dear Evan Hansen explore themes of mental health and loneliness in the digital age. In a world where social media often isolates more than it connects, the show resonates deeply, especially with younger audiences. It reminds us of the invisible battles people fight daily and highlights the importance of kindness and understanding.
The Transformative Power of Live Performance
Unlike movies or books, theatre is uniquely immediate. There’s no screen to separate the audience from the actors, no opportunity to pause or rewind. The emotions onstage are raw and real, unfolding in real time. This live element heightens the impact of the story, creating an unspoken dialogue between performer and audience.
Take The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, a play that puts the audience inside the mind of Christopher Boone, a boy on the autism spectrum. Through innovative staging and sensory effects, viewers experience the world as he does—overwhelming, chaotic, but also beautiful. For many, this production offers their first immersive glimpse into neurodivergence, fostering a deeper understanding of what it means to navigate the world differently.
Building Bridges Through Diverse Narratives
Theatre is also a crucial platform for amplifying underrepresented voices. Shows like Fun Home, based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir, provide insight into LGBTQ+ experiences with honesty and tenderness. By inviting audiences into Bechdel’s journey of self-discovery and familial struggle, the play encourages empathy and dialogue surrounding gender identity and acceptance.
Similarly, Come From Away tells the true story of a small town in Newfoundland that welcomed stranded airline passengers after 9/11. At a time of global fear and division, the musical showcases the extraordinary kindness of strangers, reminding us of our shared humanity. The audience leaves not just entertained but inspired by the simple yet profound impact of compassion.
Another great example of theatre’s power to create empathy is The Color Purple, a musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel. The story follows Celie, a Black woman in the early 20th century American South, as she endures immense hardship but ultimately finds strength, love, and self-acceptance. The musical’s raw and emotional portrayal of abuse, resilience, and sisterhood leaves audiences profoundly moved. It sheds light on racial and gender struggles while celebrating the power of perseverance and love. By witnessing Celie’s transformation, audiences gain a deeper appreciation for those who have faced similar adversities in history and today.
Why Empathy Matters
In a world increasingly divided by politics, social issues, and cultural misunderstandings, theatre serves as a bridge, reminding us of our commonalities. It challenges biases, sparks conversations, and cultivates a sense of shared humanity that is often missing in our daily interactions. By stepping into the lives of others, even briefly, we develop the ability to listen, to care, and to connect on a deeper level.
So, the next time you find yourself in a theatre, remember that you are not just watching a play—you are participating in an ancient, vital practice of storytelling that has the power to change hearts and minds. And in doing so, you might just find yourself seeing the world with a little more understanding and a lot more empathy.
