Working in the Theatre: Devised Theatre

Summary

The script delves into the creative process of experimental theater, emphasizing the search for unnamed feelings and the use of intuition over a defined process. It highlights the collaborative nature of devising theater, where performers and designers contribute to the creation of a piece, such as 'Super Turanian,' through improvisation and dialogue. The ensemble's approach values the collective intelligence and the exploration of ideas that defy easy description, ultimately embracing the unexpected and the potential for failure as catalysts for innovation in live performance.

Takeaways

• 🎭 The script discusses the process of creating experimental theatre, emphasizing the importance of evoking unnamed feelings and the initial challenge of finding form and method.
• 🔍 The early stages of theatre creation involve a period of uncertainty, akin to being 'at sea,' which is a necessary part of the process to avoid frustration later on.
• 🤝 The collaboration with Amelia is focused on an intangible goal, seeking a specific feeling or idea that is not yet clearly defined.
• 🎨 The project 'Super Turanian' is highlighted as an example where design elements are not just supportive but are central to the creation and evolution of the theatrical piece.
• 👥 The ensemble works together to develop a unique language through improvisation, where the collective intuition plays a significant role in shaping the performance.
• 🎭 The script underscores the value of dialogue and interaction with scenic elements, which are integral to the development of the theatrical work.
• 🤔 The process of creating theatre is described as iterative, with ideas being tested, discussed, and revisited through improvisation and experimentation.
• 📝 The importance of documentation in the form of video recordings is mentioned, which helps in revisiting and refining the work after the initial creative sessions.
• 🏗️ The script reflects on the concept of 'devised theatre,' discussing its relationship with traditional play creation and the preference for the term 'experimental theatre.'
• 🌐 The exploration of themes such as political lying, the nature of theatrical truth, and the systems of civilization that are often taken for granted is part of the creative process.
• ⏳ The script mentions the idea of failure as a generative concept, where embracing the unknown and the possibility of failure leads to innovation and discovery.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the creative process described in the script?

The primary focus of the creative process is on finding images, theatrical moments, and transactions that evoke unnamed feelings, often starting with a sense of being at sea or confronting a void.

How does the script describe the initial stage of creating experimental theatre?

The initial stage is described as a period of uncertainty and exploration, where creators are looking for a form and method that can lead to reliable results, but often this stage involves remaining open to frustration and the unknown.

What role does intuition play in the project described by Amelia in the script?

Intuition plays a significant role as Amelia and her team are looking for something specific that they cannot yet put into words, guiding them on a path that feels right but is not yet fully defined.

How does the script suggest the design element influences the creation of a theatrical piece?

The script suggests that when starting with design, it becomes the instigator of the piece, with the designer taking on a role of co-leader, allowing the piece to grow out of the design elements.

What is the significance of the ensemble's collective understanding in the creative process as mentioned in the script?

The ensemble's collective understanding is significant as it helps in sensing consensus on ideas and using humor as a gauge to ensure that all contributions are heard and considered, fostering a collaborative and open environment.

How does the script define 'devised theatre' and how does it relate to 'experimental theatre'?

The script defines 'devised theatre' as a process where the creation of a play is a collaborative effort, often without a pre-written script. It is related to 'experimental theatre' in that both involve an exploratory and non-traditional approach to creating performances, with 'experimental theatre' emphasizing the exploratory and testing nature of the work.

What is the significance of the term 'super Turanian' mentioned in the script?

The term 'super Turanian' is mentioned as a working title for a piece that the team is working on, indicating that it is a project in development and the title itself may be subject to change as the piece evolves.

How does the script describe the role of the stage manager in the creation process?

The script describes the stage manager as a key documenter of the structure, sensitive to the creative process, and responsible for recording everything that the performers create, which can later inform the final design and direction of the piece.

What is the approach to handling ideas that don't work out as described in the script?

The script suggests that ideas that don't work out are embraced as part of the creative process, as failure can lead to new and honest ideas through the experience of attempting something and not succeeding.

How does the script discuss the concept of truth in theatre?

The script discusses the concept of truth in theatre by exploring the idea that while acting often involves pretending and lying, there is also a form of truth that emerges when actors fully embody their roles and the scripted words become their own.

What is the significance of the script's mention of 'embrace your limitations'?

The mention of 'embrace your limitations' in the script emphasizes the importance of using constraints such as limited space or budget as opportunities for creativity, suggesting that limitations can lead to innovative solutions and unique artistic expressions.