This book presents case studies from UK artists and organisations working in social and community contexts, focusing on their aesthetic and political ambitions rather than the ‘healing, educational or problem solving’ frame the work is often cast in. Caoimhe McAvinchey, 2014
Remapping Performance: Common Ground, Uncommon Partners
This book discusses collaborative projects between communities, arts and social sector agencies, where all are vital to realise the ambitions of the project. Case studies have a mainly US focus but highly relevant to UK practitioners. Jan Cohen-Cruz, 2015
Culture, Democracy and the Right to Make Art: The British Community Arts Movement
This book tells the history of community arts in the UK through the experiences of those involved and discusses its influence on participatory arts today. An invaluable read for anyone making participatory theatre. Alison Jeffers & Gerri Moriarty, 2017
A Restless Art: How Participation Won and Why it Matters
A fantastic overview of the development of participatory arts, with historical context, analysis of themes and principles and a clear understanding of where we are and how we got here. A must read. More resources on the supporting website. Francois Matarasso, 2019
Theatre of the Oppressed in Practice Today
An excellent overview of how Theatre of the Oppressed has evolved and is being practiced internationally today, with tips, principles, case studies and conversations. A most useful read for practitioners. Ali Campbell, 2019
Unfinished Histories: Recording the History of Alternative Theatre
A valuable web resource charting the history of alternative theatre in Britain, drawing on original materials and interviews with many of those involved. Unfinished Histories, live
The Social Impact of the Arts in Liverpool
This report gives an introduction to what social impact in the arts means and draws on Liverpool City Council funded case studies to illustrate how the arts can help meet strategic social agenda. Annette Burghes & Sarah Thornton, 2017
Creative Health: The Arts for Health and Wellbeing
A detailed description and analysis of practice, impact, policy and funding of all aspects of arts, health and wellbeing in the UK today. All Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing, 2017
Policy Action Team 10: A Report to the Social Exclusion Unit
Seminal government report that sets out how the then Labour government believed sport and the arts could contribute to neighbourhood renewal, community development and social inclusion. Marked a turning point in government policy with regards arts and culture. DCMS, 1999