Artist: Augosto Boal
Confronting Bodies: Right-wing Brazilian government
Date of Action: 1964-1986
Specific Location: Brazil
Description of Artwork: Boal's plays were known for their diversity. His style tried to include the audience in the production as much as possible. His themes portrayed the "gritty reality of day-to-day life," with hints of anarchism and communism. His plays drew attention to the suffering of the poor.
Description of Incident: When Brazil's army and their right-wing leaders took control of the government in 1964 Boal's plays were banned and he was arrested and tortured. He was released from prison in 1971 but was exiled for 15 years.
Results of Incident: During his exile Boal traveled the world lecturing and teaching. He returned to Brazil after the return of civilian rule in the mid-1980s.
Source: Censorship, A World Encyclopedia, ed. D. Jones
Submitted By: NCAC