Devising theatre

Definition

Devising theatre is a collaborative and creative process where artists come together to create a performance from scratch, rather than adapting existing scripts. This approach emphasizes the contributions of all participants, blending elements of writing, acting, direction, and design into an original piece that reflects the collective vision of the group. It often incorporates improvisation and experimentation, leading to unique narratives and innovative staging.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Devising theatre often begins with a theme or concept, with participants brainstorming ideas through discussions and improvisation sessions.
2. The process encourages experimentation, allowing performers to explore different ways of telling stories through movement, sound, and visuals.
3. Feedback sessions are integral to devising, as they allow the group to refine their work based on collective insights and critiques.
4. Devised works can vary significantly in style and structure, as they emerge organically from the group's artistic exploration rather than following a predefined script.
5. The final product of devising theatre often reflects the diverse perspectives of all contributors, making it a unique representation of their collective artistry.

Review Questions

• How does the collaborative nature of devising theatre enhance the creative process compared to traditional playwriting?
  • The collaborative nature of devising theatre enhances the creative process by allowing all artists involved to contribute their ideas, skills, and perspectives. This leads to a richer development of themes and characters since everyone brings their unique experiences to the table. In contrast to traditional playwriting, where a single playwright's vision dominates, devising encourages experimentation and innovation, resulting in a more dynamic and diverse performance that resonates with both creators and audiences.
• In what ways can feedback sessions during the devising process shape the final performance?
  • Feedback sessions are crucial in shaping the final performance in devising theatre because they provide an opportunity for constructive criticism and collaborative reflection. Participants can share insights about what works well and what needs improvement, allowing for adjustments to be made before the piece is finalized. This iterative process not only enhances the quality of the work but also strengthens team dynamics as artists learn to communicate effectively and support each other's creative visions.
• Evaluate how devising theatre can impact audience engagement compared to conventional scripted performances.
  • Devising theatre can significantly enhance audience engagement by creating a more immersive and interactive experience. Since devised performances often break traditional narrative structures and incorporate elements like audience participation or site-specific settings, spectators may feel more involved in the storytelling process. This participatory approach can foster a deeper emotional connection between the audience and performers as they witness a fresh interpretation of themes that might resonate with their own experiences. Ultimately, this can lead to a more profound impact on how audiences perceive and reflect on the narratives presented.

Related terms

Physical Theatre:

A form of theatrical performance that emphasizes the use of physical movement and gestures over spoken dialogue, often integrating dance and visual elements.

Collaborative Creation: A process in which multiple artists work together to develop a performance, sharing ideas and responsibilities equally rather than having a single director or writer in control.

Site-Specific Performance: A theatrical work designed for a particular location outside a traditional theatre setting, which influences how the story is told and experienced by the audience.