A large global consulting firm needed to revive a weakening learning culture and to mobilize their consultants to actively learn from each other. The firm planned to introduce the concept of a learning network or community and also wanted to educate the consultants in the modus operandi of such an entity. In light of the attitude of apathy surrounding this concept, a very different approach than the normal presentation methods was required to create an experience that is new and unique, and that leads to active participation and enthusiasm.

The intervention applied is based on a technique called Animated Story Telling. The carefully chosen story is told by a narrator and then acted out by mime artists. They become the objects and characters within the story (parable) as told by the narrator. A facilitation session followed to ensure that delegates link the parable with the issue under consideration. Two stories were used, the first one with the key message that everyone should have a say, even the most humble. The second story confronted the audience in a humorous way with the emotional process of embracing the new and letting go of the old.

What worked well with this particular intervention, is that the performers made the audience part of the action, thereby making the experience very immediate and effective. As a formal presentation was expected, the audience was quite shell shocked during the first story, and was unsure whether they are allowed to laugh. By the time the second story was told, the ice had melted, and everybody, even senior staff and partners joined in the fun.

Over and above the entertainment, the delegates clearly understood and accepted the intended messages, and commented on the powerful emotional impact of theatre as mobilization tool. As one participant remarked: “ This intervention has created a new lease of life for a message that has gone out before but without a great deal of success.”