The Little Things That Aren’t So Little: Spotting Microaggressions Through Drama

What is a microaggression?

A microaggression is a subtle, often unintentional, comment or action that reinforces stereotypes or makes someone feel marginalised. Examples include:

• Interrupting or talking over someone repeatedly
• Making assumptions based on someone’s background
• Comments like “You’re very articulate” or “Where are you really from?”

While they may seem minor in isolation, the cumulative effect can be deeply harmful—especially when left unaddressed.

Why drama training works

Talking about microaggressions in the abstract rarely changes behaviour. People often react defensively, or simply don’t see themselves in the problem. But when they watch a scene unfold in front of them—with professional actors playing out everyday interactions—they do see it.

Drama based training allows us to:

• Show, not tell, what microaggressions look and feel like
• Pause the scene to explore intent vs. impact
• Rewind and try a different approach
• Invite the audience to reflect and participate safely

A safe space for real learning

Our drama-based sessions create space for:

• Honest reflection without judgement
• Empathy-building through observation
• Practical exploration of alternative behaviours

We’ve delivered this training for clients in education, finance, retail, and public services—often as part of a wider EDI programme. One client described it as:

“The first time our team really understood the emotional impact of their words. The actors made it real—and that made the difference.”

Why organisations need this

Microaggressions, left unchallenged, affect more than morale. They:

• Impact retention and wellbeing
• Contribute to exclusion and inequity
• Undermine diversity and inclusion efforts

Addressing them with compassion and clarity builds stronger, more respectful workplaces.

What your team will take away:

• Greater awareness of how language and behaviour affect others
• The tools to call in—not just call out—microaggressions
• Confidence to navigate conversations around intent and impact.