What is Co-Active Therapeutic Theatre and Why We Brought It to the Czech Republic

When establishing Divadlo Proměny, we long searched for an approach that could connect artistic creation with group work. Something that is not merely a dramatherapy exercise, nor a classic theatrical rehearsal. We sought a model with a clear structure, international background, and experience with diverse groups.

Co-Active Therapeutic Theatre (CoATT) offered that answer.

What the Model Means in Practice

CoATT originated in the United States from the practice of theatre makers who had long worked with groups facing challenging life situations. Its core idea is that the process of creating a performance itself carries transformative potential — provided it is guided with consideration for group safety, sensitivity to themes, and respect for each participant's pace.

The work proceeds within a clearly defined timeframe, usually several months. The group meets regularly, gradually explores its theme, and an original performance emerges from this work. Public presentation and post-performance gatherings are integral to the format — they are not optional additions.

What the Model Offers Beyond the Usual

Compared to common formats of theatre or group work, CoATT systematically incorporates several elements that together create a robust structure:

• Predictable Process Arc — participants know what to expect and when the process concludes
• Public Moment of Sharing — the performance gives the creation weight and visibility
• Post-Performance Integration — the work doesn't end with the premiere; follow-up sessions for reflection ensue
• Professional Supervision — the entire process is expert-led, not improvised

This framework provides organizations and participants with something important: assurance that the process has its own logic and leads to something concrete.

Why We Decided to Bring It to the Czech Republic

In the Czech environment, there has long been a lack of a format that combines artistic quality with expert-led group work, without being either purely theatrical or purely a remedial activity. CoATT fills this gap.

Collaboration with the model's creators continues through ongoing mentoring and follow-up workshops. This is not a one-time “method adoption,” but an ongoing professional relationship that maintains quality and an approach true to the original intent.

Currently, we work with organizations in the social, health, and education sectors. If you are considering whether CoATT could make sense for your target group, contact us — together, we will find a form of collaboration that suits your possibilities.