Abstract

The article is an attempt at examining the possibilities for the development of social capital by means of active cultural engagement, as exemplified by participatory theatre. Narrowing the analysis to this particular area of artistic practice is not a coincidence. Theatre constitutes one of the most exclusive social spaces within the cultural field, requiring a high degree of cultural competency, and taking the inequality of position between artists and spectators for granted. On the other hand, it is defined by their immediate, face-to-face encounter, which, as compared to other areas of art, provides theatre with an exceptional social potential. The so-called participatory turn in contemporary art has moved theatre into a new domain of social functionality, which cannot be adequately described and researched without the sociological “toolbox”. Hence, the article is also an attempt at taking an interdisciplinary stance and connecting the study of art and society, as well as outlining a proposal for a practical application of sociological knowledge, used not only for the sake of understanding, but also organising of the artistic practice. In this respect, it addresses the growing interest in applied social research, as shown by political, cultural, and scientific institutions.