Intro to Theatre 1030_What is Theatre_

Introduction to Theatre

  • Definition of Theatre: An art form that involves the performance of stories and ideas in front of an audience.

Theatre is Art

  • Nature of Theatre:

    • A medium through which artistic material is presented.

    • Utilizes selectivity, where elements are chosen for their effectiveness in conveying ideas.

  • Comparison with Other Art Forms:

    • Music: Focus on audible elements.

    • Painting: Focus on visual elements.

    • Literature: Focus on written elements.

Elements of Theatre as an Art Form

  • Key Elements:

    • Actors, Audience, Space, and Story are foundational components that shape the theatrical experience.

The Nature of Theatre

  • Live Art Form:

    • Theatre is transitory—existing only in the moment it is performed, providing a temporary experience.

  • Participatory Aspect:

    • Audience and performer engage in a covenant. The bond formed leads to a mutual experience shared in real time.

Theatrical Activities in Daily Life

  • Performative Activities:

    • Everyday events like graduations, weddings, and funerals are considered performative.

    • Often cultural with ties to specific times or occasions.

Historical Importance of Theatre

  • Theatrical Arts:

    • Depiction of actions on stage for an audience.

  • Cultural Universality: Theatre's presence is notable throughout human history across various cultures.

  • Historical Roots:

    • Western theatre's origins trace back to the 5th century B.C. Greek Festival of Dionysus.

Technology and Theatre

  • Survival Despite Innovations:

    • The communal experience of live theatre allows it to endure in an age of technological change.

The Special Relationship Between Performer and Audience

  • Energy Exchange:

    • The performance fosters a unique chemistry through mutual engagement.

  • Transitory Experience:

    • The give-and-take between performers and audience only exists in that instant of the performance.

Themes Explored in Theatre

  • The Human Condition:

    • Theatre addresses fundamental issues of human existence, exploring questions about life and society.

  • Imitation in Learning:

    • Children learn through imitation, which shapes the social roles they adopt.

Storytelling and Its Role in Theatre

  • Cultural Narrative:

    • Storytelling serves as a primary means of transmitting culture before written language was developed.

    • Elders often assume the role of storytellers in families, acting as keepers of history.

Ceremonies and Rituals in Society

  • Definition:

    • Ceremonies are formal occasions led by authority figures; rituals involve prescribed acts observed in cultures.

  • Universal Presence:

    • Found across all societies, reinforcing social bonds and shared identities.

Popular Entertainment

  • Performative Group Activities:

    • Activities such as dancing, concerts, and acrobatics share strong theatrical components.

Questions Explored by Theatre

  • Existential Queries:

    • Explores how we perceive the 'good life', parental behaviors, and societal issues like poverty and alienation.

  • Human Nature Queries:

    • Are humans inherently good or evil? The debate of innate traits versus a 'blank slate'.

  • Societal Structure:

    • Questions regarding the best way for humans to coexist, equality, and caring for vulnerable populations.

Categories of Theatre

  • Three Main Types:

    • Live Theatre: Immediate interaction between performers and audience.

    • Screen Theatre: Pre-recorded media that replaces live performances.

    • Personal Theatre: Elements of theatre found within everyday life and personal narratives.

Recognizing Theatrical Elements in Everyday Life

  • Reflection on Personal Roles:

    • Consider the theatrical nature of your daily activities and the roles you embody.