As a creative form of psychotherapy, drama appears to assist individuals in the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic period in altering crisis conditions and challenging negative perspectives. Drama-based intervention is presented as an option for addressing mental health issues in clinical and general populations by utilising various multidisciplinary sources, such as psychodrama and role playing. In this study, a systematic review and meta-analysis were employed to assess the impact of drama on mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect) were extensively searched from December 2019 to October 2022. Quality assessment and Risk of Bias tool of the Cochrane Collaboration were performed. Using a random effect model, standardised mean difference (SMD) values and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. In the final analysis, 25 studies involving 797 participants were included. The study revealed that drama-based interventions have the potential to improve mental health (e.g., trauma-related disorders) and well-being (e.g., psychological well-being), which could position drama as an adjunctive method of mental health care. This original review offered the newer, more comprehensive recommendations for drama-based intervention based on evidence.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, psychological problems have increased due to social distancing under lockdown. Theatre in the digital space, as a healing approach for mental health, is playing a role in helping people adapt to a new environment and confront mental issues, such as isolation and oppression. The nature of theatre online provides a safe environment for individuals to play, act and express themselves. Online meeting platforms allow people to connect and interact through video and audio calls. Based on the theatre workshop online sessions through electronic devices, such as internet-connected smartphones and computers, the researcher, as the facilitator with theatre acting and directing background, carried out theatre training in the digital space in partnership with the Cultural Affairs Bureau. The workshop provided a safe space for theatre education, communication, self-development, challenge acceptance and coping with life in the pandemic. Being aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the theatre online, this study investigated it in the digital space as a viable tool for enhancing individuals’ capacity to accept the challenge and satisfy the need for mental health during the pandemic and post-pandemic period.

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