Devised theater

Definition

Devised theater is a collaborative form of performance where a group of artists creates a piece of theater from scratch, often based on shared themes, ideas, or concepts. This process typically involves brainstorming, improvisation, and experimentation, resulting in an original work that reflects the collective input of the participants. It's a dynamic approach that emphasizes creativity, innovation, and the unique perspectives of each collaborator.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Devised theater encourages experimentation and allows artists to explore personal and social issues through their performances.
2. The process can include various forms of artistic expression, such as movement, text, and visual art, often blurring the boundaries between different art forms.
3. Devised theater pieces can emerge from workshops, where participants contribute ideas and scenes over time, shaping the final production.
4. This form of theater is particularly popular among contemporary artists who seek to address current social issues and engage audiences in meaningful conversations.
5. The final outcome of devised theater can vary significantly from traditional scripted plays, as it often lacks a predetermined script and evolves organically during the creation process.

Review Questions

• How does devised theater foster creativity among its participants compared to traditional forms of theater?
  • Devised theater fosters creativity by allowing participants to contribute their own ideas and perspectives throughout the entire creation process. Unlike traditional forms where a script is often set in stone before rehearsals begin, devised theater invites collaboration and improvisation, encouraging performers to experiment with different themes and methods. This environment can lead to innovative works that are rich in diverse viewpoints and artistic expressions.
• Discuss the role of improvisation in the development of devised theater pieces and how it influences the final product.
  • Improvisation plays a crucial role in devised theater as it serves as a tool for generating material and exploring characters or themes. During rehearsals, actors may experiment with spontaneous dialogue and movement, which can lead to unexpected discoveries that shape the overall narrative. This fluidity allows for a more organic development of the performance, where elements can be adjusted or completely transformed based on what resonates with the ensemble during the creative process.
• Evaluate the impact of devised theater on contemporary performance art and its potential for addressing social issues within communities.
  • Devised theater has significantly influenced contemporary performance art by providing a platform for artists to tackle pressing social issues relevant to their communities. By collaborating on original works that reflect their collective experiences and concerns, artists can create pieces that resonate deeply with audiences. This approach not only fosters engagement but also encourages dialogue about societal challenges, ultimately aiming to inspire change or raise awareness through the power of collective storytelling.

Related terms

collaborative creation: A process where multiple artists work together to develop a piece of art or performance, sharing ideas and responsibilities.

improvisation: A theatrical technique where performers create dialogue and action spontaneously, often used in the early stages of devising theater.

site-specific theater: A form of performance that takes place in a specific location outside traditional theater spaces, often incorporating elements of the site into the work.