Beyond Words: the Potential of Playback Theatre in Promoting Reconciliation in Post-Armed Conflict Societies

Abstract

For decades,peace and reconciliation procedures within communities in post-armed conflict scenarios have been approached through mainstream lenses, focusing solely on justice and truth-finding.This study examines the flaws of the standard top-down approach and the gap it creates between national intention sand population reality. Further research on alternative approaches to peacebuilding and reconciliation is conducted with a focus on community-based bottom-up approaches. The case of Playback Theatre as a dialogue-enabling technique in a post-armed conflict environment is the major focus of the research to further deepen the findings.The implications of implementing this initiative are examined through the case of Nepalese communities.This case study demonstrates the positive impact that alternative artistic initiatives can have on several levels in countries dealing with post-conflict peace and reconciliation processes.The research shows clear benefits at the local and community levels through the reintegration of people into society and individual healing from the traumatic events of the war, as well as a positive impact at the national level by assisting people in becoming more open to participating in top-down initiatives for reconciliation.