#1000LIKES (Forum Theatre on Cyberbullying)
Webpage NUS Theatre, #1000LIKES
#1000LIKES is a Forum Theatre performance that tells the story of a case of cyberbullying experienced by the play's protagonist. One of the key elements is the "culture of silence," where peers remain silent out of fear or indifference, the teaching staff and the school downplay the issue, and ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) serve to obscure the violence. The protagonist not only faces isolation but is also criticized at home for being "addicted" to her phone and computer.
A distinctive feature of this performance is that the audience is encouraged to keep an eye on their mobile phones, as they will actively participate in the unfolding events. Through a mobile app that they must download, the young audience members will be able to:
- Provide feedback in virtual spaces created by the characters, sparking discussions about the use of ICTs.
- Take action to either stop or allow the bullying, leading to a debate about cyberbullying.
- Share their opinions on which scene should be explored next.
This innovation means that the performance's development depends on the virtual participation of the audience, which will ultimately influence the outcome (whether tragic or not) of the play.
