The Power of Art to Create Change | The Express Way with Dulé Hill

This activity will…

• Help students understand how art can be used as a form of activism and a tool to create social change
• Expose students to challenges playwright James Warren faced in his youth, the impact violence can have on communities, and how it can be addressed

Students will be introduced to the term “artivist” and the goals of an art and activism initiative in Chicago called The Andre Theatre Collective. In the second clip, “Sharing James’ Story,” students will learn how playwright James Warren became incarcerated and why he decided to engage in playwriting. In the clip “Casting the Play,” actors audition for Warren’s project and explain why they believe it is essential that a formerly incarcerated actor star in the play. Lastly, in “The Transformative Power of Art,” students hear more about Warren’s purpose for creating the work and who he hopes to reach with the project.

While watching each clip, students should answer the “while watching” questions. After watching all the clips, students should discuss the “while watching questions.” After discussing clip four, students should read and analyze the monologue “Dear Violence” read by Dulé Hill. To culminate, students should discuss the deeper level analysis questions. An extension activity gives students the opportunity to consider issues impacting their school communities and how they might use art to raise awareness about the issue and inspire others to take action to address it.