Investigating historical and contemporary performance practices

Understanding the Context of Performance Practices

Historical context is crucial in building a rich understanding of performance practices. This involves exploring social, political, economic and cultural factors present at the time of a performance’s conception.
Contemporary performance context covers performance practices developed from the mid to late 20th century to the present day. It encapsulates an array of multidisciplinary works, often characterized by a break from traditional narratives and forms.

Exploring Historical Performance Practices

Classical theatre emerged from the ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome, adopting elements such as the use of masks, the chorus, and the three unities of time, place, and action.
The Elizabethan era brought forth a golden age of theatre, with playwrights like William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe pushing boundaries in language, plotting, and characterization.
Theatre of the Absurd rose in popularity in the mid-20th century, with existentialist themes and unconventional staging, often eschewing logical plot, character development, and dialogue.

Identifying Contemporary Performance Practices

Physical Theatre involves using the body as the main medium for storytelling rather than depend heavily on text. This can manifest through dance, mime, or clowning techniques.
Site-specific theatre represents a type of performance where the environment plays a vital role in the narrative, be it outdoor locations or unconventional performance spaces.
The rise of interactive theatre offers audiences a more active role in performances, often blurring the line between performer and spectator.

Evaluating Influential Factors on Performance Practices

Cultural influences encompass traditional art forms, social values, and societal narratives that shape the themes and styles of a performance.
The economic environment can dictate the development of performance practices, such as budget constraints leading to minimalistic set design or creative use of props.
Technological advancements in lighting, sound, or special effects open up new possibilities for enhancing narratives and creating immersive audience experiences.

Engaging with Performance Practices

Review and critique historical and contemporary performances, comparing and contrasting styles, themes, and influences.
Explore how the performing arts industry evolves in response to societal changes, economic trends, and technological advancements.
Reflecting on personal creative practice and identifying areas of growth and development shaped by learned performance practices.