People’s Action Theatre (PAT)

The People’s Action Theatre (PAT), established in the early 1970s in Dominica, emerged as a pivotal force in the island’s theatrical and cultural landscape. Founded by cultural luminaries Alwin Bully and Daniel Caudeiron, PAT produced socially relevant and artistically compelling performances that resonated with local and regional audiences.

People’s Action Theatre (PAT): Origins and Evolution

Initially known as the Little Theatre Movement, the group was formed by students and teachers from institutions such as the Dominica Grammar School and the Convent High School. Under the direction of Amah Harris, the company presented a diverse range of theatrical works, including Shakespearean plays and international musicals.

In 1972, after Alwin Bully returned from his studies at the University of the West Indies and Daniel Caudeiron from England, the group underwent a transformation. They introduced a new socio-political focus, staging their first drama, “Speak Brother Speak,” written by Caudeiron and directed by Bully. This production was performed twelve times at the Goodwill Parish Hall and later showcased at the first CARIFESTA in Guyana in 1972.

Subsequently, the group adopted the name People’s Action Theatre (PAT), reflecting their commitment to social transformation and progressive change. PAT went on to produce several notable plays, including “Streak!”, “The Nite-Box,” “Folk Nativity,” “The Ruler,” “Pio Pio,” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” They also created radio serials such as “Green Gold” and “Secrets of La Cloche.” By the late 1970s, some of these productions were running for 50 performances in Dominica and other Caribbean countries.

Impact and Legacy

PAT’s success inspired the formation of other theatre groups during that period, such as Aquarian Expression, which produced “Quest” by Clement ‘Baba’ Richards and Severin McKenzie, and “Mirror, Mirror” by Minchington Israel. In 1976, the Old Mill Company delivered a Christmas Pantomime entitled “Sun Moon and the Pretty Girl,” written and directed by Ken Gardenier and Paul Toulon.

In the 1980s, after Bully joined UNESCO in Jamaica, Nigel Francis took over the artistic direction of PAT. The birth of the New Dimension Theatre in 1983, under the direction of Steve Hyacinth, marked a new wave of theatre in Dominica. Over the years, the NDT has produced thirty popular plays, all written and directed by Hyacinth, among them “Your Son My Husband,” “Drum Voices,” “Why Sweetie,” and “House of Shingles”.

PAT’s influence extended beyond the stage, contributing to the development of community theatre as an avenue for social change and rural development. The Eastern Caribbean Popular Theatre Organization, a regional association, was active in promoting this movement, with the Movement for Cultural Awareness leading the implementation in Dominica. Led by figures such as Greg and Sinky Rabess, Sobers Esprit, Baba Richards, Ashworth Simon, and Severin McKenzie, this initiative further solidified PAT’s role in shaping Dominica’s cultural identity.

Notable Productions

PAT’s repertoire includes a range of productions that have left a lasting impact on audiences:

• “Streak!”: A social commentary reflecting life in Dominica during the 1970s.
• “The Nite-Box”: A play that intertwines politics, humor, tragedy, and social commentary. It was revived in 2023, demonstrating its enduring relevance.
• “Folk Nativity”: A production starring Ophelia, with music by Alwin Bully and Einstar LeBlanc.
• “The Ruler”: Starring Gerry Didier, this play captivated audiences with its compelling narrative.
• “Pio Pio”: A production that showcased PAT’s commitment to original storytelling.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar”: An adaptation that highlighted the group’s versatility and artistic ambition.

These productions not only entertained but also provoked thought and discussion, reinforcing PAT’s mission to use theatre as a tool for social awareness and change.

The Enduring Influence of PAT

The People’s Action Theatre remains a cornerstone in the history of Caribbean theatre. Through its innovative productions and commitment to social commentary, PAT has left a lasting mark on the cultural fabric of Dominica and the Caribbean region.