Devising Selves Through Chaotic Performance: Explorations of Radical Blackness

Abstract

This thesis details the explorations and developments of my personal dramaturgy and performance form. The balancing of interpersonal and emotional materials; searching for connections between performers and the audience. Taking the elements from each person to add to a dramaturgy of performance that pulls from individual stimuli but works as a collective for the performance. Acknowledging the difference of personal history and perspective but finding a way to meet for conversations. The dramaturgy of connection, and acceptance of difference. From rehearsal moments, artistic inspirations, and outside stimuli; that all led to the form of art that is currently being developed and shown. In this thesis I explore several performances that inspired the development of my personal performative structure.

Throughout this thesis I also go into the differences in the world of American theatre performance and education that I came from before my studies in Prague. Exploring the differences in what is expected from the artist/performer and what is being explored. In this exploration there is also the examination of cultural difference and personal identity. Going through a variety of question that come from learning a new form of devising and dramaturgy in a foreign country and the cultural, historical, and racial expectations and impulses that exist throughout this process.