Using the framework of Forum Theatre, a form of participatory theater, Osako uses acting and discussion to explore ways to deal with PMS which are comfortable for both the self and for relationships with others.
Forum Theatre is a method to encourage some sort of behavioral change with regard to a problem or issue through discussion (forum), and performance (theater).
This project involves creating and performing a short play of around five minutes with the theme of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), pinpointing the uncontrollable physical and emotional conditions that occur before menstruation, and the relationship problems associated with this.
Participants (audience members) discuss what they feel after watching the play (anti-model); and from the second performance on can put their hands up and take over the acting role to express their own thoughts and ideas. By repeating this procedure, the aim is to try and promote communication between participants.
This piece of forum theatre is designed to ascertain how to create a “forum” where participants can put their heads together, using the fictional nature of drama as a buffer to deal with sensitive issues that many people struggle with, but which are difficult to discuss openly.