guerrilla theater

American  

noun

1. the presentation of short propaganda plays or skits, usually on sociopolitical themes, as war or repression, often on the streets or in other nontheater locations.

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Etymology

Origin of guerrilla theater

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

And then as I got older in my education, I was basically a co-artistic director of a young improv troupe that would go out and do guerrilla theater.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 12, 2023

Still, as guerrilla theater, Banksy’s recent act will be tough to beat.

From Salon • Oct. 19, 2018

In genteel Richmond, guerrilla theater is a rarity.

From Washington Post • Apr. 8, 2016

The events are held in large, open spaces, like the rooftop of a parking garage, or at a motorcycle dealership — places that turn meals into the food version of guerrilla theater.

From New York Times • Aug. 30, 2014

This is roughly the esthetic theory of the poster or the comic strip, and guerrilla theater is hardly more subtle; radical drama willingly sacrifices art for impact, nuance for message, plot for propaganda.

From Time Magazine Archive