Devised theatre

Definition

Devised theatre is a collaborative form of performance creation where the script and concepts are developed collectively by the artists involved, rather than being based on a pre-existing text. This approach encourages experimentation and innovation, often allowing for unique narratives and theatrical styles that reflect the perspectives of the ensemble. Devised theatre emphasizes the input of all participants, fostering a sense of ownership and shared creative responsibility among the cast and crew.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Devised theatre often begins with a central theme or question that guides the creative process, allowing participants to explore various interpretations.
2. This form of theatre frequently involves workshops and improvisation sessions where ideas are generated and refined through group collaboration.
3. The final product of devised theatre can take many forms, including original scripts, physical performances, or multimedia presentations.
4. Devised theatre has roots in various theatrical traditions, including experimental theatre and community-based performances, reflecting diverse cultural practices.
5. It is often used as a tool for social change, as it encourages marginalized voices to be heard and explored through the performance medium.

Review Questions

• How does devised theatre promote collaboration among artists compared to traditional scripted performances?
  • Devised theatre promotes collaboration by allowing all artists involved to contribute to the creation of the work from its inception. Unlike traditional scripted performances where a single playwright writes the script, devised theatre relies on collective input through workshops and improvisation. This process not only enhances creativity but also fosters a sense of shared ownership among participants, resulting in a more cohesive and innovative performance that reflects diverse perspectives.
• Discuss the impact of devised theatre on storytelling and narrative structure within contemporary performance.
  • Devised theatre has a significant impact on storytelling by breaking away from conventional narrative structures found in traditional plays. The collaborative nature allows for fluid exploration of themes and characters, leading to unique narratives that may not follow a linear progression. This flexibility often results in innovative storytelling techniques that can challenge audiences’ expectations and invite them to engage with complex social issues through multiple lenses.
• Evaluate how devised theatre serves as a method for addressing social issues within communities and enhancing audience engagement.
  • Devised theatre acts as a powerful method for addressing social issues by providing a platform for underrepresented voices within communities. By involving participants from diverse backgrounds in the creation process, performances can reflect authentic experiences and highlight pressing societal challenges. This engagement not only enriches the content but also fosters a deeper connection with audiences, encouraging them to reflect on their own perspectives and prompting discussions around important social themes.

Related terms

Collective Creation:

A process in which a group of artists collaborates to generate a performance piece, often involving improvisation and shared contributions.

Physical Theatre: A genre that combines movement, dance, and visual storytelling to convey narratives, often using minimal dialogue.

Site-Specific Theatre: Performances that are created for and take place in a specific location, enhancing the audience's experience by integrating the environment into the production.