Theatre Symposium, Volume 24 addresses theatre and space as a wide-ranging topic in theatre history, examining the myriad spatial arrangements, architectural styles, and historical contexts that inform theatrical productions, and the relationships of audiences to those spaces.
At a time when so many options exist for access to theatrical entertainments, it is no surprise that theatre practitioners and scholars are often preoccupied with the role of the audience. While space undoubtedly impacts the rehearsal and production processes, its greater significance seems to rest in the impact a specific location has on the audience. This volume delves into issues of theatre and space, traversing traditional theatre spaces such as the African Grove Theater discussed by Gregory Carr, Tony Gunns examination of Edward Gorey's theatrical designs, and George Pates reflections on Beckett's stage directors. Also highlighted are some decidedly innovative spaces, like those described by J. K. Curry in her examination of Theatre for One and modern uses of medieval sacred spaces as detailed by Carla Lahey.
Whether positive or negative in scope, meanings generated within theatre spaces are impacted by the cultural context from which they emergethe ways in which space is conceived, scrutinized, and experiences. As a result, the relationship between space, theatre, and audience is diverse, complex, and ever changing in practice.
