Chapter 2: The Audience and Criticism

Perception (Audience)

The audience's direct experience of the performance.

Interpretation (Audience)

How the audience derives meaning from the performance.

Intention (Artists)

What the artists try to communicate to the audience through the performance.

Do audience interpretation and artist intention always match?

No, they may or may not match.

Theatre vs. Film: Occasion

Theatre is generally a formal, special occasion; film is regular and informal.

Theatre vs. Film: Tickets & Seating

Theatre typically requires advance reservations and assigned seating; film has open seating.

Theatre vs. Film: Credits

Theatre credits are printed in a program before; film credits roll after.

Theatre vs. Film: Scenery Realism

Theatre scenery may not be realistic; film scenery is usually realistic.

Theatre vs. Film: Focus

Theatre allows the viewer to choose where to look; film focus is camera-determined.

How do audiences influence theatrical productions?

They influence the choice, style, marketing, and duration of the performance run.

Step 1 of Evaluating the Theatrical Experience

One experiences the performance.

Step 2 of Evaluating the Theatrical Experience

One analyzes the performance.

Step 3 of Evaluating the Theatrical Experience

One communicates one's response to another.

Criticism

The act of making judgments.

Critic Concern: Understanding

What were the artists trying to do?

Critic Concern: Effectiveness

How well did the artists do what they tried to do?

Critic Concern: Ultimate Worth

How valuable was the experience?

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