The Space Between Theatre and Education: Isabelle Gatt delivers module in Naples

Prof. Isabelle Gatt recently delivered a 30-hour intensive module entitled The Space Between Theatre and Education at Suor Orsola Benincasa University in Naples. The module explored the relationship between theatre practice and educational processes, bringing together creative thinking, embodied learning and community engagement.

The programme combined lectures on creative processes with practical theatre lab sessions, allowing students to explore how ideas are generated, developed and communicated through action and reflection. Emphasis was placed on learning as an experiential and collaborative process.

Participants came from a range of disciplinary backgrounds, including primary teacher education and psychology. This diversity contributed to a rich learning environment in which different perspectives informed discussion and practice, encouraging students to reflect on how theatre can function as a pedagogical tool across educational and social contexts.

The module concluded with a final session that brought together students and community partners working in Naples. This session extended the work beyond the classroom, connecting the processes developed during the module with wider social and cultural realities.

The programme was delivered at the invitation of Prof. Maria D’Ambrosio and forms part of an ongoing academic collaboration between the University of Malta and Suor Orsola Benincasa University. This collaboration includes reciprocal teaching and research exchanges that support shared reflection on theatre, education and community-based practice.