The postdramatic playwright: a critical analysis of strategies for representing reality

Meades, Charlotte (2018). The postdramatic playwright: a critical analysis of strategies for representing reality. University of Birmingham. M.A.

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Abstract

This thesis explores the relationship between the postdramatic genre and representations of reality. The works of three playwrights are considered. Samuel Beckett’s plays Not I, Footfalls and Rockaby will be utilised. These works enable an understanding into the distortion of dramatic theatre, and question the authority of character and time in performance. Sarah Kane’s 4.48 Psychosis and Crave will also be studied as modern examples of the postdramatic in practice. Kane’s plays establish a precedence of exploring structure in the space. Martin Crimp’s play Attempts on Her Life will also support this, questioning how reality can be created and dissolved within the performance realm. The thesis looks at how technology has become an increasingly vital component of theatre, and comes to conclusions as to how this affects a non-linear play structure. An investigation is also made into the role of the semiosphere and ‘void’, enquiring whether performance can exist without preconceived semiotics. Live performance examples are drawn upon, and the association between dramatic theatre modes and postdramatic platforms are discussed.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.A.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.A.

Supervisor(s):