Theatrical Drama and Social Issues: A Field Study on a Sample of Jordanian Theatregoer

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the role of theatrical drama and its impact on social issues: (social, political, economic, and cultural issues).

Methods: The study employed a social survey method by developing a questionnaire consisting of two parts. The first part included demographic characteristics of the study sample, while the second part included questions related to the relationship between theatrical drama and issues: (cultural, social, political, and economic) posed by the theater. The convenient sample included (200) participants.

Results: The results of the regression equation test for the purpose of answering the first four questions showed the presence of a role for theatrical drama in addressing (social, political, cultural, and economic) issues from the perspective of Jordanian theatergoers. The results of the One Way ANOVA test indicated that there were no significant differences in the average responses of the respondents regarding the role of theatrical drama in political and cultural awareness from the perspective of Jordanian theatergoers, while the results showed statistically significant differences in the field of "awareness of economic issues" according to the difference in the variable of monthly income level.

Conclusions: The study highlighted some recommendations, including attempting to address issues directly relevant to Jordanian society and dealing with its actual problems and aspirations through theater, reinforcing the role of youth and supporting them in theatrical work, providing them with opportunities to showcase theatrical skills and creativity, and providing job opportunities for them, which helps reduce unemployment rates in Jordanian society. The study also recommends that social researchers conduct further studies to highlight the importance of theater in addressing social, political, cultural, and economic issues.