Continuous Evolution of Kitchen Table Conversations at DRAK.
DRAK has established the Kitchen table conversations into a continuous practice. A Kitchen table conversation is a methodology developed in the previous EU-project T.E.E.N; shifting the focus to empower the youth by giving them control of the conversation. In this setting, adults and creators are positioned as spectators, allowing young voices to lead the discussion.
Extended Preview Format: Introducing Psychotherapy
DRAK has also enhanced the preview format by incorporating a psychotherapist into the discussions. After the preview of a theatre performance, children and youth visitors engage in discussions with a psychotherapist specializing in children and family therapy.
This approach to conducting discussions helped participants more effectively explore the sensitive themes in the productions and opened up a new way to engage in dialogue with those involved. It was beneficial not only for the participating teachers but also for the creators and the lecturers who design the creative learning programs for the productions.
The 3Place-Project as a “Third Place”
The EU-project has evolved into a “third place” itself, where the impact of youth involvement is immediately felt. The youth who participated in Camp Involve have carried their experiences into their continued involvement. Through DRAK’s workshops, the youth have been encouraged to perceive and empathize with others through fiction, abstraction, and aesthetics.
Long-term Connections and Impact Analysis
DRAK’s Kitchen table discussions have sparked inspiring debates and profound reflections. To truly assess the impact, it’s essential to analyze how we build long-term relationships with the youth, rather than merely focusing on their initial involvement.
Establishing Sustainable Practices Across Countries
A shared objective among all partners has been to establish practices that will outlast the project itself. This goal is already being realized, with sustainable practices emerging in various contexts.
Adapting Kitchen Table Conversations for Different Audiences
In the Czech Republic and Norway, Kitchen table discussions have predominantly targeted a professional audience, but there is potential to adapt this format to engage young people as well. These discussions offer youths a platform to safely express their thoughts on art, allowing them to lead the conversation and articulate their perspectives.
Expanding the 3Place Project Internationally
The kitchen table format contributes to the spread of the 3Place project among professionals in Norway, the Czech Republic, and beyond. Although most of these discussions are not filmed or recorded, some are used in communications after securing approval from the youths involved.
Fieldwork in the Czech Republic: Testing Transferability
During fieldwork in the Czech Republic, DRAK visited Kloden Teater to explore whether their approach could be adapted to a different cultural context. This visit raised similar questions as those encountered by Czech audiences. DRAK also hosted several kitchen table discussions, with high school students attending performances at Kloden Theater in Norway. The primary goal is to equip teenage audiences with the tools and space needed for reflection on their artistic experiences, acknowledging that teenagers are just as capable art consumers as adults.