Keywords
Dramaturgical Collaboration, Dramaturgy, Directing, TYA, Collaboration, Pandemic
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the theatrical landscape, prompting theatre artists to reinvent how they connect with audiences and each other in physical spaces. While research has delved into post-pandemic theatre making, much of this area remains unexplored, particularly concerning young people, how the loss of community has impacted them, and what society can do to help. This thesis investigates how professional directors and dramaturgs can effectively engage young people in theatre making post-pandemic by drawing on three specific productions — Camelot and Camelittle, WROL (Without Rule of Law), and Alice and the Wonderland Parties. Utilizing theories drawn from The Art of Active Dramaturgy by Lenora Inez Brown and Directing Young People in Theatre by Samantha Lane — this thesis examines how dramaturgical collaboration can be implemented to foster community and positive relationships among young participants in the theatre-making process. The research in this thesis argues that by employing dramaturgical collaboration in the production process, young people can form meaningful connections with their peers, combating the isolation experienced during the pandemic. Beyond the pandemic context, this type of collaboration offers young people avenues for deeper engagement with the theatrical text itself. This thesis contributes to the discourse on post-pandemic theatre-making by providing practical insights into cultivating connection and community among young participants. It highlights the importance of dramaturgical collaboration as an enrichment tool in theatre making and fostering meaningful relationships in a post-pandemic world.
Completion Date
2024
Semester
Spring
Committee Chair
Edmonson, Chloe
Degree
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
College
College of Arts and Humanities
Department
Theatre
Degree Program
Theatre for Young Audiences
Format
application/pdf
Identifier
DP0028343
URL
https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0028343
Language
English
Rights
In copyright
Release Date
May 2024
Length of Campus-only Access
None
Access Status
Masters Thesis (Open Access)
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Lawlor, Gabrielle, "Creating Connection: Utilizing Dramaturgical Collaboration to Engage Young People in Theatre Making in a Post-Pandemic World" (2024). Graduate Thesis and Dissertation 2023-2024. 174.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd2023/174
Accessibility Status
Meets minimum standards for ETDs/HUTs