Identity and creativity: The transformative potential of drama lessons

Abstract

The article introduces an approach to study of identity in children placed in categories associated with disadvantage. It gives an example of the way in which pupils who are on the FSM (Free School Meals) register can experience the transformative potential of drama in relation to identities within school and beyond. This represents a challenge to the understanding of drama as providing a chance to “express” oneself and instead suggests that drama provides opportunities for the exploration of identities, which are fictitious.

Keywords

• identity
• creativity
• drama lessons
• notion of self