Behind the curtains : breaking the fourth wall with a public interface into the [laboratory] of the performing arts

Abstract

Behind the Curtains is an exploration into the introverted and indeterminate space as a place of activity. The dissertation investigates and compares the spectacle of the everyday and reality by means of a theatre stage and a semi-public courtyard / plaza, which is situated opposite the State Theatre in Pretoria s CBD. The theatre is focused on the awareness of reality through the spectacle of performance while the semi-public courtyard / plaza can turn the artificiality of everyday situations into theoretical situations and bring life to the streets (Brenner 1994:97). Everyday life is put on display. The programme forms a new back of house for the State Theatre with the theatre stage, rehearsal studios and back of house programmes intertwined with the activities of the everyday. The project explores whether it is appropriate to intervene and re-appropriate an introverted site, characterised by its indeterminate left over spaces, and whether the re-appropriation of indeterminate space could reactivate Pretoria s CBD. The dissertation seeks to advocate an alternative approach to removing the existing, by investigating the possibility of working within the dynamics of an introverted and indeterminate left over space. The dissertation explores finding new possibilities and opportunities to transform the site into dynamic social spaces that maintains the uniqueness and quality of the spaces, without destroying the space s character and memory