Verbatim theatre

Definition

Verbatim theatre is a form of performance that uses the exact words spoken by real people, often transcribed from interviews, court hearings, or other sources. This technique emphasizes authenticity and truthfulness in storytelling, often addressing social issues or historical events. It relies on the use of documentary material to create a dramatic narrative that reflects real-life experiences and perspectives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Verbatim theatre gained prominence in the late 20th century as artists sought to explore real-world issues through authentic voices.
2. One of the most notable examples is 'The Laramie Project,' which uses interviews with residents of Laramie, Wyoming, to address the aftermath of a hate crime against a gay student.
3. Verbatim theatre challenges traditional notions of authorship, as the playwright often acts as a curator rather than a creator of the text.
4. This form is often used to highlight marginalized voices, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to share their experiences in a powerful way.
5. The production process typically involves extensive research and interviews, with performers trained to embody the characters of real people while delivering their words.

Review Questions

• How does verbatim theatre utilize real people's words to create a narrative, and what impact does this have on audience perception?
  • Verbatim theatre uses the exact words spoken by real individuals to craft its narrative, creating an authentic and immersive experience for the audience. This approach fosters a deeper emotional connection, as viewers can engage with genuine stories that reflect real-life struggles and triumphs. The impact on audience perception is significant; they are encouraged to confront complex social issues and consider multiple perspectives in a way that traditional scripted theatre may not achieve.
• In what ways did Erwin Piscator influence the development of verbatim theatre and its role in documentary theatre?
  • Erwin Piscator was instrumental in shaping documentary theatre by introducing the idea of using real-life events and materials to convey political messages. His emphasis on factual representation paved the way for verbatim theatre, as it shares a commitment to truthfulness and authenticity in performance. Piscator's techniques inspired later artists to explore how verbatim text can evoke social change by presenting unfiltered narratives that resonate with audiences.
• Evaluate the significance of current trends in verbatim theatre within the broader landscape of 21st-century theatre, particularly regarding social justice.
  • Current trends in verbatim theatre play a crucial role in addressing pressing social justice issues by amplifying marginalized voices and promoting awareness. As artists increasingly turn to real-life narratives to create impactful performances, verbatim theatre has become a vital tool for activism and advocacy. This evolution reflects broader shifts in 21st-century theatre towards inclusivity and representation, challenging audiences to engage with difficult topics and consider their implications in society.

Related terms

Documentary Theatre: A theatrical form that combines live performance with documentary elements, often using factual material and interviews to tell a story.

Ethnography: The systematic study of people and cultures through direct observation and participation, often used as a source for verbatim texts in theatre.

Interviews: Conversations where one person asks questions and another provides answers, often serving as the primary source of material for verbatim theatre.