Theatre of the Oppressed NYC

A nonprofit organization

$151,509 raised by 2,100 donors

Theatre of the Oppressed NYC partners with communities confronting systemic oppression to inspire transformative action through theatre. Our goals are to build solidarity and awareness; to enable actors to become activists; and to influence policy making through participatory theatre. Our work is guided by several core principles: that any discussion of a social problem should center the voices of those most affected; that unscripted, live encounters have immense potential for transformative change; and that community-based art and activism can influence policy.

Since being founded in 2011, we have worked, lived, and performed across Brooklyn - creating and presenting original performances with local community members and advocacy organizations. Our partners in Brooklyn include or have included the Red Hook Community Justice Center, Housing Works, Neighbors in Action, the Ali Forney Center, the Red Hook Initiative, and many others. We have performed and led workshops at Brooklyn Community Arts and Media High School, Tilden Educational Campus, Repair the World, PioneerWorks, the Bedford Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, and elsewhere. Our work has been cited by former Council Member Carlos Menchaca, representing Sunset Park and Red Hook, as directly impacting city legislation.

Over 11 years, TONYC has developed over 85 original plays and presented more than 315 free performances. Over 725 actors have been guided through the production of plays addressing the systems of oppression that impact their lives. All actors have been paid for their time, and for the expertise of their lived experience. Your support will play a direct role in using art to amplify advocacy and take action toward a more just borough, city, and world.