How Could Regeneration Increase Social Equality in Govanhill, Glasgow?
A Systems Mapping Event Using Social Presencing Theatre
Nov 17, 2020
Guest blog by Robin Duval, originally published at https://firestarterfestival.com on September 14, 2020.
I attended the Firestarter Festival for the first time this year. After completing the ULab in late 2019, I decided to run my own event as part of the data collection for my MSc dissertation regarding the impact of urban development on rent and well-being in Govanhill (an area in Glasgow, Scotland).
The event used Social Presencing Theatre (SPT) to create a 4D map exploring existing power relations between decision makers and impacted communities and then shifting these relationships using mindfulness and movement to envision a future for Govanhill for people from all backgrounds. The morning focused on practical exercises aimed at encouraging empathetic active listening, grounding individuals in their bodies, and developing awareness of group dynamics using Joanna Macy’s Systems Game. In the afternoon, participants volunteered for roles to create the 4D map.
