Theatre and Indigenous Politics in Honduras

Abstract

The thesis "Theatre and Indigenous Politics in Honduras" seeks to examine how Indigenous activists use Theater to aid social change in Honduras. Challenging common stereotypes about Honduras by exploring its rich cultural heritage and resilience in the face of historical and contemporary challenges. Delving into issues like poverty, violence, and political instability, focusing mainly on the strength of the Honduran Indigenous community and their cultural traditions. Beginning with an overview of the importance of theater and use to aid social changes. Using a U.S. based theater company, to ease readers into something they might be familiar with. Exploring Honduras's socio-economic landscape, the thesis emphasizes the Honduran society's struggles and strengths. Delving lightly into the history of Honduran theater, highlighting key figures and traditional theatrical forms that blend indigenous culture with Catholicism, showcasing the enduring heritage of Honduran communities.

Contemporary issues confronting indigenous communities, such as land rights and environmental activism, are also scrutinized, with a focus on activists like Berta Cáceres. Underscoring the role of theater in empowering marginalized communities, through discussions of indigenous rituals and its importance in cultural preservation and community engagement. The thesis traces the painful journey of the Garifuna people from the Caribbean to Honduras, illuminating their cultural identity and resilience despite challenges like forced displacement. While it explores the cultural expression like Punta dance, as forms of resistance and community empowerment, and the legacy of Honduran theater and art in challenging stereotypes and promoting social change. Overall, the thesis reveals the cultural resilience of Honduran communities, advocating for inclusive approaches to address their challenges and foster a more equitable future through empowerment and artistic preservation.