Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019
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Date of Graduation
Spring 2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Department
School of Theatre and Dance
Advisor(s)
Zachary A. Dorsey
Abstract
This thesis aims to discover how communitas can be created through theatrical performances by blurring the line between audience and performer as well as performer and character. The topic of the Millennial generation is used as a thematic element in performance to emphasize the creation of community. A theatrical form will be introduced, called the “Living Biography:” a method of devising based on devising, documentary, and immersive theatre. This form will be shown as one possible option in creating communitas in a performance. While other forms of audience inclusion are frequently used, it will be argued that the “Living Biography” approach is also a strong mean to create a community. Work by The Civilians, Anne Deveare Smith and Tectonic Theatre Project will be referenced influencing the concept of this thesis as well as informing the production qualities. This thesis will also argue that creating community in and of the performers themselves also greatly serves and is necessary to create communitas in a performance. The devising process will be heavily referenced throughout the thesis and detailed so that an understanding of the process is clear to the readers. A definition of Millennials will be given along with interviews conducted and remarks from the thesis ensemble.
Recommended Citation
Byrne, Sean R., ""Debate: Millennials don't stand a chance" Devised, documentary and immersive theatre: The Story of EveryMillennial" (2015). Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019. 25.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/honors201019/25
Journal of Progress and devising schedules for EveryMillennial. Each meeting with the ensemble is described for the benefit of the reader. List of devising activities are provided.
Included in
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