The Role of Site-Specific Theatre in Contemporary Performance Art
Since the 5th century BC, theatres have been drawing audiences into the traditional stages where they can watch drama, comedy, tragedy and even musical performances. But what happens when the boundaries between performance and environment disappear? Enter site-specific theatre, a revolutionary art form that takes storytelling out of the box and turns any space into a living, breathing stage. Today we’re going to enter the world of site theatre in contemporary performance arts. We’ll look at the benefits and challenges and go behind the scenes to see how these unusual sites help create an immersive experience. Whether you’re a student of theatre looking to push the boundaries or just a curious audience member, join us on this creative adventure and let your imagination run wild and learn about this amazing art form.
Understanding site specific theatre
Site-specific theatre is a growing trend in contemporary performance art that breaks free from the confines of a traditional theatre where actors perform on stage. The performances take place in unexpected locations, from bustling city streets and historical sites to warehouses and parks. It gained popularity in the 1980s when Storming Mont Albert by Tram (1982) was performed eight times over a dozen years on a moving tram in Melbourne and Adelaide by the Australian company TheatreWorks.
Performances are generally designed with a specific location in mind so that the unique characteristics of the location can be used to enhance the storytelling. This form of theatre creates a powerful connection between the audience, the performance, and the very space itself. The chosen location becomes another character capable of influencing the narrative, engaging the audience and offering unique experiences.
Advantages of site-specific theatre
When compared to the traditional form of theatre with a fixed stage and plush seats, site theatre offers several advantages for performers and the audience.
- The unconventional setting and environment create a more immersive experience. Audience members become active participants alongside actors and can experience the play from different angles and perspectives.
- The site chosen for the performance often possesses a unique set of characteristics like an interesting history, rare architecture, impressive acoustics and natural elements that add a layer of authenticity and depth to the performance.
- Unconventional sites for performances allow creative teams to innovate and experiment with storytelling techniques. They can use the natural features of the site for character development and plot progression to engage the audience to create memorable productions.
- Depending on the storyline, site theatre offers flexibility to reach audiences who might not typically attend traditional theatres. It is a great way to introduce contemporary art to new audiences.
Challenges in producing site specific theatre
Site-specific art has many advantages, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges.
- The directors and producers must scout for sites and then obtain the necessary permissions to perform. This entire process can be complex, time-consuming and can delay performance if the requisite rights are not secured.
- Site-specific performances can have issues due to the unpredictability of the environment. For example, outdoor performances in parks, rooftops, public squares, fridges and forests can be affected by weather conditions.
- Traditional theatrical elements like lighting, sound, and set design require innovative solutions to adapt to the chosen location.
- Rehearsing in an unconventional space can be challenging. Production teams need to be flexible and resourceful to work around it and achieve desirable results.
The evolution and future of site-specific theatre
There is no concrete proof of when site theatre began, but it’s safe to say that since there have been people, there have been theatrical performances at unconventional locations. From medieval actors performing religious plays on carts in York to 1960s artists staging shows at the back of crowded bookshops, performances have occurred in diverse locations. The concept of a dedicated theatre with plush red seats is actually a recent development.
The term site-specific theatre came into play in the early 1980s when several theatrical groups, such as Brith Gof, started using it to describe their experimental form of contemporary performance art. By the late 1990s, the term was used widely for any performance that didn’t take place inside traditional theatres, a bus tour, an abandoned vault, or a bustling street. These early experiments created a pathway for modern practitioners to shift towards more immersive and interactive forms of storytelling.
Fast-forward to the present scenario, site-specific art is evolving and constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities to engage the audience. With the rise in technology, such as virtual/augmented reality and interactive installations, the possibilities are endless. That day isn’t far when directors will begin using these emerging technologies to enhance theatrical performances. It’s an exciting time for theatre, but it’s important to use this tech wisely. We don’t want to lose sight of the real world while we’re exploring the virtual one.
Explore a career in site-specific theatre
If you are interested in exploring a career in theatre, an understanding of site-specific theatre is invaluable. You must learn in-depth about the unique challenges and opportunities it presents to develop the flexibility and creativity needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of contemporary performance art.
At the Australian Performing Arts Conservatory (APAC), you will have the opportunity to explore site theatre as part of our comprehensive Bachelor of Screen & Stage (Screen Production) course. Our programme offers practical training in various aspects of theatre production, including site-specific performances. For more information, visit APAC’s Bachelor of Screen & Stage course.
Frequently asked questions about site specific theatre
Q1. What is the purpose of site-specific theatre?
Ans. The goal of site theatres is to create a unique and immersive experience for the audience using unconventional spaces. By using specific locations, site-specific performances can explore new storytelling possibilities, engage audiences in unexpected ways, and challenge traditional theatrical norms.
Q2. What are the challenges of producing site-specific theatre?
Ans. The challenges of producing this experimental form of theatre are:
- Finding suitable locations.
- Obtaining necessary permissions.
- Addressing technical limitations
- Ensuring audience safety.
- Dealing with unpredictable weather conditions.
Q3. Why are site-specific performances important?
Ans. Site-specific performances are important because they offer a fresh perspective on theatre. It challenges the traditional boundaries of the theatrical space and invites audiences to play a more active role in the performances. They are part of the environment and may interact with the performers or the space itself.
Q4. What are the four principles of site-specific theatre?
Ans. When it comes to site-specific performances, there are a number of things you must take care of but there are four principles that are constant:
- Exploring unique spaces and architecture.
- Being in conversation with the elements of performance.
- Differentiating between augmenting and transforming your space.
- Creating presence and performance energy in site-specific work.
Q5. How can I learn more about site specific theatre?
Ans. At APAC, we offer a comprehensive Bachelor of Screen & Stage (Screen Production) course where you can learn everything about screen and stage production, including site theatre.
