Traction Youth Theatre Ensemble: Performing Social Cohesion

Abstract

This report details the outcomes of pilot research into Traction, Queensland Theatre’s outreach youth ensemble based in Logan City. The goal of the research was to investigate the potential for Traction to promote social cohesion, and was undertaken in partnership between Queensland Theatre and Griffith University’s Institute for Educational Research (GIER). Traction was established and has since been maintained with funding from the federal government’s Department of Social Services, in response to a perceived need in the Logan community for programs and initiatives that would promote social cohesion. Queensland Theatre knew from anecdotal evidence that there were significant outcomes occurring in Traction, and sought to investigate and frame these within credible empirical research. Queensland Theatre also wished to explore how Traction might be facilitating career aspirations and pathways for young people into the arts. For GIER, the research represented an opportunity to investigate a unique example of theatre outreach as undertaken by a major performing arts company. Combining ideas about social cohesion and applied theatre, this report investigates the value of theatre and drama for young people in the Traction ensemble, and the potential ripple effects into the wider community of Logan and beyond. Although a small pilot study, the research found that Traction provides a culturally diverse cohort of 49 participants with a strong sense of identity, belonging, hope and aspiration; and the ensemble plays a key role in positioning them for success as artists and adults in the broader community.