Talk show - an activity

Purpose

To get people to use their own life experiences to explore a wide variety of issues that may be of relevance to them. In doing so they will also need to consider the perspectives of others that may be involved in this situation.

Procedure

Staff and young people brainstorm issues of relevance.

• Decide the issue that is going to be explored in the talk show (eg. Young people hanging around the streets)

• List the people that may be involved in this situation ( eg. young person/people, police, angry neighbour, youth worker)

• In smaller groups discus the points that might be raised by these individuals

• Set the scene for the talk show including stage, audience seating arrangements list of any additional characters eg. host of show.

• Decide who is going to take on the roles of the central characters and give them any additional briefing with regards to their role ( eg. the show host needs to introduce the theme to the show , decide on the order they will come on stage and sum things up at the end )

• After the central character have had their say allow the audience to ask questions

• If the arguments start falling apart you may want to signal to the host to bring the show to an end.

• The host now sums up in a few sentences and ends the show.

• After the show use the time to continue discussions and get feedback informally.

Materials

Basic materials Pens, Paper, microphone.

Variations

• Have a separate group working on a chant, song or music to introduce the show.

• Try role reversal i.e. staff playing young people and young people playing adults.

• Video the show and have a group evaluation afterwards

• Invite two or three groups in that do not normally meet to take part.

• Choose issues for discussion from newspaper articles

Comments for facilitators

The talk show forum is something is that most young people recognise. Some shows have a lot of abuse and fights. Be clear from the start about what is and is not acceptable.

It is an opportunity for young people to choose what part they will play in the whole process eg. not everyone wants to be out front and play the host, however they may ask a question as an audience member or video the event.

AGENCY: Manchester Youth and Community Service Ltd.