Devising

Definition

Devising is a collaborative and dynamic process of creating theatrical performances through collective input from a group of artists, often focusing on improvisation and experimentation. This approach allows for a more organic development of the performance, where the ideas, themes, and characters emerge organically from the collaboration, rather than adhering strictly to a pre-written script.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Devising often starts with a central theme or question that the group explores through movement, dialogue, and improvisation.
2. It encourages experimentation and risk-taking, allowing performers to try out different ideas and find what resonates best with the ensemble.
3. The process can result in a diverse range of performances, from abstract works to narrative-driven pieces, depending on the group's creative direction.
4. Devising typically involves workshops where participants engage in games and exercises designed to spark creativity and foster collaboration.
5. The final product is usually a reflection of the group’s collective voice, highlighting their unique perspectives and artistic expressions.

Review Questions

• How does devising differ from traditional script-based theatre in terms of creative process?
  • Devising differs from traditional script-based theatre because it relies on a collaborative creative process rather than starting with a predetermined script. In devising, artists come together to explore themes and ideas through improvisation and experimentation, allowing the performance to evolve organically. This approach fosters a sense of shared ownership among the creators, which contrasts with the more hierarchical structure found in traditional productions where a single playwright's vision dictates the direction.
• Discuss how improvisation plays a crucial role in the devising process and its impact on performance outcomes.
  • Improvisation is vital in the devising process as it allows performers to explore characters and scenarios spontaneously, contributing to the overall development of the piece. Through improvisational exercises, artists can uncover unexpected ideas and connections that may not emerge through scripted work. This freedom can lead to unique performance outcomes that reflect the individual contributions of each artist while maintaining cohesion as a collective narrative or theme.
• Evaluate the significance of collaboration in devising as it relates to developing original theatrical works.
  • Collaboration in devising is significant because it harnesses the diverse skills, perspectives, and creative energies of all participants to develop original theatrical works. This collaborative approach enables artists to challenge each other’s ideas, fostering an environment of mutual respect and innovation. By integrating different viewpoints, devising not only enriches the creative process but also leads to performances that are more reflective of contemporary societal issues and experiences, making them relevant and engaging for audiences.

Related terms

Physical Theatre: A genre of performance that emphasizes physical movement, often blending elements of dance, mime, and acting to convey a story or theme.

Improvisation: The spontaneous creation of dialogue or action in a performance without a scripted text, allowing actors to explore characters and situations in real-time.

Collaborative Creation: A method of artistic production where multiple artists contribute their skills and perspectives to create a unified work, emphasizing teamwork and shared vision.