(Inter-) facing space : a forum-based theatre inside an indeterminate urban site

Abstract

The study will investigate a design intervention that attempts to respond to the condition of spatial indeterminacy in the Sammy Marks precinct of Pretoria, where this condition is heavily pronounced in the form of disused public squares, inactive edges and inner-block voids. The study suggests that developing these spaces as cultural interfaces can provide a foothold for emergent city life and cultural activities. The specific project intervention will take the form of a theatrical interface that will serve as a platform for public interactive theatre events and a theatre school. The client is the State Theatre, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works. The site of the intervention is located in close proximity to the State Theatre. An investigation of the site and its surrounding context will generate opportunities for specific intervention.