Conducting a playback theatre performance is complicated! At the heart of the role is the art of group leadership, which involves meeting the needs of each moment, as well as attending to the different needs of tellers, performers and the audience. With so much going on, how do we create atmosphere, build rapport and hold an inclusive and safe space? And how can we also be spontaneous, curious, sensitive and vulnerable?
When is it time to be like a rock, and when is it better to be like water?
In this workshop our exploration of the conductor’s role will occur in the context of the arc of a performance and with reference to the elements of narrative reticulation: story, guidance, atmosphere and spontaneity. Narrative reticulation is a framework for understanding what elements need to be managed in order to create an effective Playback Theatre performance. The framework was developed by Playback Theatre co-founder Jonathan Fox.
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to practise conducting, as well as to tell stories and perform on our stage.
Participants will leave the workshop with a deeper understanding of the role, but the workshop is not just for those who already conduct stories in rehearsals or performances (or who hope to do so at some point). Everyone in playback benefits from a better understanding the complexity of the conductor’s job!
-
-
Share