Issues of theatrical representation of the otherness: Τhe case of Roma
WORKING GROUP / DISCUSSION PANEL
Athens International Conference “Theatre/Drama & Inclusive Education”
Athens 22 March 2025
Hellenic Theatre/Drama & Education Network (TENet-Gr)
Language: English
Coordinators: Eleni Tsetsekou, Head of the Council of Europe - Roma and Travelers Division & Christina Zoniou, theatre researcher - practitioner, Teaching Staff at the Department of Theatre Studies, University of the Peloponnese Greece.
Guests
Franziska Frakas, Romani-Hungarian actress and theatre maker, Hungary
Anna Mirga-Kruszelnicka, anthropologist and a Roma activist, deputy director of ERIAC, Poland
Christoph Leucht, sociologist, co-founder of Kuringa Space for Theatre of the Oppressed, Germany
Giannis Georgiou, Romani social scientist on history and identity of Greek Roma and their representation, Greece
Anestis Azas, director of the RomaLand performance, Greece
Aktina Stathaki, theatre researcher- director, Greece
Comentators:
Anna Tsichli, Teaching Staff at the Department of Theatre Studies, University of the Peloponnese Greece
Antigoni Tsarbopoulou, teacher, consultant of “It Could be me-it could be you” project.
Questions of the working group:
The role of Roma people in contemporary theatre has been a subject of exploration in various countries, including Germany, Hungary, and Greece. Numerous plays and theatre projects have emerged where Roma actors play or Roma characters are represented on stage, sparking discussions on culture, identity, and the social issues facing the Roma community. Through such theatre initiatives, we have the opportunity to foster self-expression, challenge stereotypes, and build a future where Roma people can embrace their identity without fear or shame, while also encouraging broader societal understanding and respect.
Many questions arise: what do theatre artists aim to represent when telling stories about Roma people? Is it an exploration of culture, social exclusion, otherness, or an attempt to depict Roma as just like everyone else, as part of a broader narrative of "normality"? One critical aspect of such works is who is telling the story. Are Roma people merely subjects of others' narratives or are they active participants in telling their own stories?
Theatre projects "about Roma" often seek to address deeper questions surrounding identity, but this raises a pivotal concern: what does it truly mean to be Roma? Is it merely a portrayal of otherness, or are we seeking to explore the complexities of Roma identity in a more meaningful way? As artists, teachers and practitioners, we must ask ourselves: are we truly trying to show Roma culture and experiences, or are we, perhaps unconsciously, reinforcing perceptions of "difference"?
An essential consideration is for whom we create these plays. What emotions do we want to elicit from the audience? Should they feel guilty, sad, or pity for Roma people? Or do we want to engage them in a way that prompts curiosity, interest, and deeper questioning? The challenge lies in striking a balance between showcasing the hardships Roma communities face and celebrating their strength and resilience.
Should we depict Roma as victims of discrimination and social exclusion? While acknowledging the harsh realities of discrimination is important, there is a growing call to empower Roma individuals, especially the youth, to embrace their identity with pride. Theatre can serve as a platform for young Roma people to celebrate their "romanity"—their Roma identity—and counteract the narrative of victimhood.
Theatre has the power to be a tool for both self-expression and social change, and part of that power lies in empowering young Roma to protect themselves from discrimination. Theatre, as a means of education, can provide a safe space where Roma youth learn to confront prejudice and strengthen their sense of belonging.
Finally, a significant challenge lies in sharing theatre skills with Roma individuals, especially young Roma, who are part of these plays. By offering these "means of production" to young Roma, we not only help them represent their own stories but also ensure that the voices of future generations remain vital and authentic within the arts.