Exploring transformative processes in the production of Spotlight

Abstract

Transformative learning experiences in theatre are the essence of why theatre was created and continues to exist in the world. Theatre is a deep connection to the human condition which allows us to learn and construct knowledge in aid of global and individual insight. This form of storytelling creates an opportunity for transformation as the individual creates meaning from a simulated experience. For multiple role players, namely: researchers, dramatic arts practitioners and theatre education specialists; the emphasis on transformation was solely focussed on the audience’s experience. This study will focus on the actors transformation as they engage in theatre processes to achieve their transition from self to character. This interchangeable process will be facilitated through the Bhava-Rasa theory which represents the cognitive and emotional journey the actor undergoes during their transformation. Along with the Social Alchemy theory which represents the character’s narrative as the actor navigates within to develop the transition which is required.

The aim is to investigate the use of theatre theories in developing the actor as they create their character in order to foster deep educational developments in beliefs, thoughts, perspectives, and perceptions. The study will achieve this aim by observing actors as they engaged in theatre practices during their participation in the Spotlight production. Semi-structured interviews with three actors and the director will be conducted at three intervals to create a time-line. These intervals will be at the beginning of the rehearsal process, during the rehearsal process, and after the second production performance. This time line will provide a platform to investigate when and how transformative learning experiences occurred.

The knowledge pursued in this study is about exploring the connection between theatre practice and transformative learning experiences within the actor. The investigation will focus on how transformative learning develops the meaning scheme of the actor as they engage in the artistic process. The meaning schemes of an individual refers to the beliefs, concepts, judgements, values, attitudes, perspectives, feelings and assumptions they hold. This body of knowledge is used as a way to interpret the world. We view ourselves and the world around us through these filters which shapes our understanding. It is the meaning scheme possessed by the actor which is altered during the transformative process in theatre.