Collectivism

Definition

Collectivism is a social and economic philosophy that emphasizes the collective over the individual, advocating for the ownership and control of resources by a group or society rather than private individuals. This idea often challenges traditional notions of individualism, focusing on community, cooperation, and shared goals. In the context of avant-garde theatre, collectivism influences artistic expression by prioritizing ensemble performance and collaborative creation over individual stardom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Meyerhold's approach to theatre was heavily influenced by collectivist principles, which he believed could create a more engaging and dynamic performance experience.
2. Collectivism in theatre often manifests in ensemble work, where the contributions of all members are valued equally, fostering a sense of community among performers.
3. In Meyerhold's productions, the concept of collectivism extended beyond the stage to include audience participation and interaction, blurring the line between performers and spectators.
4. Meyerhold’s 'Biomechanics' technique was designed to encourage actors to work together as a cohesive unit, emphasizing physicality and movement as a collective expression of ideas.
5. The rise of avant-garde theatre during the early 20th century coincided with political movements that promoted collectivist ideals, reflecting broader societal changes in Europe.

Review Questions

• How did collectivism shape Vsevolod Meyerhold's approach to theatre and performance?
  • Collectivism played a crucial role in shaping Meyerhold's approach to theatre by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and ensemble work among actors. He believed that by fostering a sense of community on stage, performances could become more dynamic and engaging. This focus on collective creativity allowed for innovative techniques like Biomechanics, which encouraged actors to express ideas through shared physicality rather than relying solely on individual performance.
• What are some key ways in which collectivism is represented in avant-garde theatre as exemplified by Meyerhold's work?
  • Collectivism in avant-garde theatre is represented through ensemble performances where all actors contribute equally to the creative process. In Meyerhold's work, this is evident in his use of Biomechanics, which required actors to synchronize their movements to create a unified expression of themes. Additionally, his productions often invited audience participation, further breaking down barriers between performers and spectators and reinforcing the idea of collective experience.
• Evaluate the impact of collectivism on audience engagement and theatrical innovation during the rise of avant-garde theatre.
  • Collectivism significantly impacted audience engagement and theatrical innovation by transforming how performances were conceived and experienced. By prioritizing collaboration over individual accolades, productions became more immersive and participatory. This shift led to innovative forms of storytelling that challenged traditional narratives and engaged audiences more deeply. The focus on collective expression allowed for exploration of new themes and styles that reflected contemporary societal changes, making avant-garde theatre a critical platform for artistic experimentation.

Related terms

Avant-Garde: A movement in art and literature that seeks to challenge established norms and push boundaries, often embracing radical and experimental techniques.

Theatre of the Absurd: A post-World War II theatrical movement that emphasizes existential themes, often characterized by illogical plots and a focus on the absurdity of human existence.

Ensemble Theatre: A form of theatre where a group of actors works collaboratively to create a performance, often sharing equal responsibility for its artistic direction.