Political theatre and the experience economy

Ruth, Tyrone Leon (2018). Political theatre and the experience economy. University of Birmingham. M.A.

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Abstract

This investigation will be seeking contemporary insight into a binary conundrum that has perplexed the theatre academe for decades. Can political theatre accurately critique capitalism whilst being a product of it? Using contemporary political theatre surrounding the 2015 UK general election, I will focus on three case studies which exemplify varying illustrations of ‘success’ under the idealised agenda of political theatre; that of political emancipation. These pieces may be proven to align with the traditions of the avant-garde, and act as contemporary instances. However, all three theatrical performances share a distinct commonality, that which harnesses modes of participation in their work, inducing differing forms of experience. This thesis will pose insight into whether such examples of political theatre are products of a proliferating experience economy, or have the potential to usurp an economic framework and accurately critique global capitalism. I will evidence the differing ways in which the ‘system’ can be understood, perhaps undermining the notion that the system of capitalism is impenetrable. Finally, I will traverse the problematic notion of finding strategies through which experience can potentially be utilised for the benefit of political theatre’s emancipatory ambitions.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.A.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.A.

Supervisor(s):