Of Research Pings and Ping–Pong Balls: The Use of Forum Theater for Engaged Water Security Research

Abstract

Communicating research information to stakeholders can be challenging, but it increases research uptake and impact beyond the academic audience. Using art-based methods to convey research results has been shown to be very effective in reaching diverse audiences. The project reported herein used Forum Theater to convey study results on different perspectives about water security. Performances included built-in data collection procedures, which verified previous research findings from more con-ventional study types. Postperformance focus groups examined the efficacy of Forum Theater for research communication. Audience members suggested that the play was very engaging and a salient, credible, and legitimate means of communicating research results. Implications for researchers, policy makers, and stakeholders are discussed.