Active spectatorship

Definition

Active spectatorship refers to the idea that audiences are not passive observers but rather engaged participants in the theatrical experience. This concept encourages viewers to think critically about what they see, analyze the social and political implications, and draw their own conclusions, rather than simply absorbing the narrative presented to them. In this way, active spectatorship is central to the goals of epic theatre, where the intention is to provoke thought and encourage action among the audience members.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Active spectatorship is a key principle in Brecht's epic theatre, which seeks to transform the audience into critical thinkers.
2. Brecht believed that theatre should not just entertain but also serve as a tool for social change, prompting viewers to question societal norms.
3. In active spectatorship, audiences are encouraged to interact with the performance by reflecting on its themes and drawing connections to their own lives.
4. This approach contrasts with traditional theatre, where audiences often become emotionally absorbed in the narrative without questioning it.
5. Active spectatorship fosters a sense of responsibility in viewers, motivating them to consider their role in society and how they might effect change.

Review Questions

• How does active spectatorship enhance the experience of watching epic theatre?
  • Active spectatorship enhances the experience of watching epic theatre by turning audiences into participants rather than mere observers. This engagement compels viewers to analyze and critique the performance, allowing them to connect its themes with real-world issues. By actively reflecting on what they see, audience members can deepen their understanding of societal challenges and consider their role in enacting change.
• In what ways does Brecht's use of Verfremdungseffekt contribute to active spectatorship?
  • Brecht's use of Verfremdungseffekt contributes to active spectatorship by intentionally creating distance between the audience and the characters or situations on stage. This technique prevents emotional identification, prompting viewers to think critically about the narrative instead of simply becoming absorbed in it. As a result, audiences are encouraged to question social norms and engage with the political themes presented in the performance.
• Evaluate how active spectatorship can influence societal change as envisioned by Brecht through his theatrical methods.
  • Active spectatorship can significantly influence societal change by empowering audiences to reflect on social injustices and consider their responses. Brecht envisioned that when viewers engage critically with a performance, they would be inspired to take action beyond the theatre. By fostering awareness and encouraging personal responsibility, active spectatorship aligns with Brecht's goal of using theatre as a catalyst for social transformation, ultimately motivating audiences to challenge oppressive systems and advocate for reform.

Related terms

Verfremdungseffekt: A technique used in epic theatre to create a sense of alienation, preventing audiences from becoming too emotionally involved in the story and instead encouraging them to think critically about the issues presented.

Epic Theatre: A theatrical movement founded by Bertolt Brecht that aimed to engage audiences intellectually rather than emotionally, encouraging them to reflect on societal issues through a critical lens.

Theatricality: The use of elements that emphasize the constructed nature of theatre, highlighting the difference between reality and performance, which helps foster active engagement from the audience.