Devised theatre

Definition

Devised theatre is a collaborative form of performance creation where the script is developed by a group of artists, often involving actors, writers, and directors, through a process of improvisation and experimentation. This approach emphasizes collective storytelling and can lead to innovative narratives and unique staging that might not emerge from traditional script-based methods. Devised theatre often incorporates elements of physicality and ensemble work, reflecting the shared vision of the creative team.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Devised theatre often begins with a theme or concept, which the ensemble collectively explores through workshops and improvisational exercises.
2. The process encourages risk-taking and experimentation, allowing performers to contribute their own experiences and perspectives to the material being created.
3. This form of theatre can take many shapes, including physical performances, multimedia presentations, and site-specific works that respond to their environment.
4. Devised theatre is often seen as a reaction against traditional narrative structures, promoting fluidity and innovation in storytelling.
5. It fosters a sense of community and collaboration among artists, which can lead to stronger connections both on stage and off.

Review Questions

• How does devised theatre challenge traditional storytelling methods?
  • Devised theatre challenges traditional storytelling methods by prioritizing collaboration and collective creation over predetermined scripts. Instead of following a conventional narrative structure, it allows for exploration of themes through improvisation and experimentation. This results in unique narratives that reflect the diverse voices within the ensemble, often leading to innovative ways of presenting stories that differ significantly from scripted performances.
• Discuss the role of physicality in devised theatre and how it enhances the performance.
  • Physicality plays a crucial role in devised theatre as it enables performers to express emotions and concepts beyond verbal communication. Through movement, actors can create visceral connections with the audience, making the performance more engaging and impactful. The integration of physicality can lead to unexpected discoveries during the creation process, shaping the narrative in ways that text alone may not achieve. This emphasis on physical expression aligns with the ideals of both devised theatre and physical theatre.
• Evaluate how devised theatre fosters an environment of collaboration among artists and its impact on the final performance.
  • Devised theatre fosters an environment of collaboration by encouraging all participants to contribute ideas and creativity equally throughout the development process. This collaborative spirit not only strengthens relationships among artists but also enriches the final performance with diverse perspectives and approaches. By incorporating input from various individuals, the resulting work often feels more dynamic and authentic, as it reflects a collective vision rather than a single authorial perspective. This collective ownership can enhance audience engagement as they witness the unique interplay between various artistic contributions.

Related terms

Physical Theatre: A genre of performance that emphasizes the use of physical movement, gestures, and body language to convey meaning and emotions, often without relying heavily on text.

Ensemble Work: A collaborative approach to performance where all members of the cast contribute equally to the creation and interpretation of a piece, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Improvisation:

The act of creating or performing spontaneously without a script, allowing performers to explore new ideas and directions in their work.