Space at the Theatre 1) Consider the use and function of space in social and cultural contexts and the political meanings derived from their construction. 2) 2) To think about the use of space at the theatre, its origins, various configurations and evolution over time. 3) Semiotics and the framework Patrice Pavis' Questionnaire provides us with in analysing performance and use of space. Functions of Space, Social, Economic and Political: There is a sense of rules or a way of behaving within certain spaces. There is a degree of understanding of what is expected of people within certain places. We often survey our surrounding environment and read the information given to us. There's a transactional relationship taking place. What is asked of us? What are we allowed to do? What is expected of us when entering and travelling through these spaces? Spaces have the potential to impact whose voices are heard. Who is allowed to speak? Who is silenced? How Can Space Be Political? . "Space organizes our social relationships; it structures our relations of power (economic, political, gendered, and more). Space may seem kind of obvious, ignorable, a given-space is "just there," after all, all the time-and yet it is the physical, psychical, and social framework that contains and enables all human interaction, as well as all interaction between and among humans and nonhuman inhabitants of the planet."1 · "Further, space's epistemological duality-its imaginary potential, coupled with its literal and constant material impact on our lives-inevitably transforms it into territory, into something to be argued over, fought for, colonized, decolonized, hunted, owned, and lost."2 Space At the Theatre: · Performance space (Stage) - Often transportive illustrative of a wider or smaller section of society or indeed of someone's imagination. · Audience space - Often shrouded in darkness. Power dynamics this suggests to us. Their eye-line is drawn towards the illuminated area in front of them. · Backstage - Serves as a place of operation and support for the action on stage. · Front of house / Social and Business space - Social and business space. Networking, human interaction, anticipation, and discussion. · Virtual - Access to theatre for a wider audience beyond the physical structure of the theatre itself. Audience Configurations: Designers and directors hold awareness as to the position of their audience and what they are likely to see from one perspective versus another. Different spatial arrangements affect the audience's experience and the actors'. Different spaces, 1 Solga, K. (2019). Theory for theatre studies : space / Kim Solga. (London : Bloomsbury Methuen Drama) p.2. 2 Ibid.
larger or smaller, demand alternative approaches and present their own challenges to positioning the body. They also invite the audience to think differently about how we view performance. · End on · Traverse · Arena / In-the-round · Thrust · Promenade / Free roam Semiotics & Pavis' Questionnaire: Sign The Object / Thing Signifier The physical existence (Sound, Word, Image) Red / Leaf / Round / Apple Signified The mental concept