by Cicely Richard

Created on: August 15, 2008

Many people have experienced environmental theatre, even if they didn't know the proper terminology to describe it. The local "Shakespeare in the Park" is a good example of this form of entertainment. When they put on a performance of "A Midsummer's Night Dream," the audience is engaged in the action because the characters make their way around the audience. It's as if the performance has left the confines of the stage, and the viewers are now a part of the cast of characters in the play. However, environmental theatre is a broad definition in which there are no limits to what the artist can do.

The term environmental theatre came about in 1968, when Richard Schechner used it to describe the experimental nature of the work done by his Performance Group. He wants to take the art form out of the confines of a theater and extend the meaning scenery, stage and space to encompass the world around people. Moreover, the performance is seen as more authentic and the audience is more engaged because real world setting are used instead of the synthetic, artificial elements of traditional theater.

Environmental theatre is often called site-specific theater. The space can be a non-theater setting, an out of the ordinary place. The spaces can be a varied as the steps of a building, a night club, a laundry mat, and even a public bathroom. It is like extreme street performing. They work with what is naturally provided for them. For example, natural light is used for daytime audiences. Artificial lighting is a no-no for these outdoor performances. This enables the performers to focus on the audience, as well.

Environmental theatre is also characterized by outdoor theaters that create elaborate scenery. Some of the scenery is suspended above the crowd watching. The audiences are awed by the spectacular performances of the artists. While the high-flying action makes an impression on the audience, the performers employ non-verbal storytelling techniques to engage the audience. In this way, the audience has to employ their mental faculties to create mental dialogue to go with the actions. It is as if they are interpreting the themes and messages being presented to them.

Although environmental theatre is associated with outdoor performances or other non-theatrical venues, it can also describe indoor productions. When performers leave the stage and walk down the aisles, they include the audience in the performance. The performers may talk to spectators and encourage them to sing or dance to the songs. It is also referred to as interactive theater. Shows that employ this method include performances geared toward children. If anyone has seen the musical "Cats," they too go through the aisle to make the audience feel a part of the performance.

Many cities around the country offer environmental theatre performances. If you can go to at least one, it is a unique cultural experience.

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