Critical Stages (Dec 2021)
Franchised/Recycled Performance as a Theatre of Ecology
Abstract
There could be different manifestations of a “theatre of ecology”: from new versions of a so-called poor theatre with the use of reduced and/or recycled materials, including set design, props and costumes, to the concept of an eco-dramaturgy with stories that are not centred only on human destinies. Although I will refer to these features as well, the focus of this article is different. As the practice of long-distance travelling, by plane in particular, is seen as one of the biggest environmental threats, a debate on the ecological sustainability of theatre touring is open. One of the proposals is the practice of what I call “franchised” or “recycled performances.” These are the shows that don’t go on tour in their original version, which means with their primary cast and original material equipment. They are recycled on each new spot by the local crew, not necessarily performers, and with local stage material such as sets, costumes and props. This concept of recycling is based on an all-encompassing stage text which includes all artistic, technical and production features of the show. In this article, I discuss two performances of this kind, A Play for the Living in a Time of Extinction, a part of the Sustainable Theatre? project, and Conference of the Absent.
