A New Approach to Youth Resilience
The JANUS Methodology is based on Autobiographical Theatre, a powerful methodology developed by dramatherapist Domingo Ferrandis (SOLIS SRLS). This approach integrates theatre, storytelling, and personal narrative as tools for emotional resilience, self-exploration, and social inclusion.
In today’s world, young people face increasing challenges related to mental health, identity, and belonging. Traditional education and support systems often fail to provide the necessary tools for self-expression and healing. Autobiographical Theatre offers a transformative space where young people can use their own life stories to gain self-awareness, empowerment, and connection.
The JANUS Methodology, inspired by Ferrandis’ work, applies this concept to help vulnerable youth navigate their experiences and develop emotional resilience through non-formal learning and creative expression.
What is the JANUS Methodology?
The JANUS Methodology is an innovative framework that integrates Autobiographical Theatre into youth work, education, and mental health support. It encourages participants to:
Explore their personal narratives in a safe and creative space.
Use storytelling and performance as tools for self-reflection and empowerment.
Develop resilience and emotional well-being through artistic expression.
Enhance social connections and promote inclusion within their communities.
This approach has been successfully tested in Italy, Romania, and Cyprus, showing significant positive effects on young people struggling with mental health issues, social isolation, and identity challenges.
Autobiographical Theatre and Domingo Ferrandis’ Influence
Autobiographical Theatre is a unique form of performance that blends personal experience with theatrical expression. Domingo Ferrandis, a leading figure in dramatherapy, has developed innovative strategies to use autobiographical storytelling as a therapeutic and artistic tool.
How does Ferrandis handle audience expectations of literal truth in his performances?
Ferrandis navigates the fine line between authenticity and artistic representation, ensuring that autobiographical narratives are both emotionally compelling and theatrically effective. His performances often combine real-life experiences with symbolic storytelling, allowing audiences to connect with universal emotions and themes.
What strategies does Ferrandis use to balance personal and universal themes in his theatre?
By incorporating movement, metaphor, and abstract storytelling, Ferrandis transforms personal experiences into collective narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. This balance ensures that autobiographical performances are both deeply personal and widely relatable.
How does Ferrandis' approach to autobiographical theatre differ from other forms of theatre?
Unlike traditional theatre, which relies on fictional scripts, Ferrandis’ work focuses on raw, unscripted storytelling. His methodology aligns with contemporary choreo-performance techniques, where movement, improvisation, and emotion-driven narratives take center stage.
What role does trust play in creating autobiographical theatre?
Trust is fundamental—both trust in oneself to share personal experiences and trust in the audience to engage with vulnerability and sincerity. Ferrandis ensures that his performers feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the creative process.
How does Ferrandis ensure that his performances are both personal and respectful to his audience?
Through carefully structured storytelling techniques and ethical considerations, Ferrandis creates a dialogue between performer and audience, ensuring that personal narratives are shared with integrity and impact.
His work is part of a broader academic and artistic movement, aligning with studies on autobiographical choreo-performance such as “Please Look at Yourself”: Insecurity and the Self in Performance and Re-Thinking Autobiographical Choreo-Performance as a Window to Identity.
Join Our Upcoming Online Workshop!
To share the impact of the JANUS Methodology and provide hands-on insights, we are hosting an interactive online workshop on March 31, 2025.
What to Expect?
Live demonstrations of key Autobiographical Theatre phases
Insights into the JANUS project and its role in youth mental health.
Real-life case studies from Italy, Romania, and Cyprus.
Networking opportunities with youth workers, educators, social workers, mental health professionals, and artists. Open discussions on how this methodology can be applied in Erasmus+ projects, European cooperation, and non-formal education.
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is ideal for professionals working in:
Youth work & non-formal education
Theatre, arts, and creative education
Mental health & social inclusion projects
Erasmus+ and European cooperation initiatives
How to Participate?
📌 Participation is free, but pre-registration is required. A confirmation email with login details will be sent to all registered participants.
🔗 Register now using this Link
📥 Download the flyer here:
Join us in harnessing the power of storytelling to transform lives!
Kommentare