Promoting the health and wellbeing of young Black men using community‐based drama

Purpose This paper aims to explore the role of drama and theatre in promoting the emotional and social wellbeing of a group of young Black men living in south London. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative methodology was used in a process and outcome evaluation of a drama‐based initiative that aimed to promote young Black men's sexual and emotional health. Findings The research found that this community‐based initiative was able to promote young people's self‐esteem and a positive sense of agency. This was achieved by creating opportunities for self‐expression, reflection and self‐understanding, and through the development of relationships between participants characterised by trust and reciprocity. Originality/value The evaluation points to the strengths of youth and community work and arts‐based approaches in engaging young people around health issues and in promoting emotional wellbeing and a positive sense of identity among young people. The evaluation also highlights the usefulness of process‐oriented qualitative evaluation as an appropriate way of evaluating and contributing to the ongoing development of initiatives that aim to use the arts in healthcare settings.