THE APOLLO TRILOGY PART 2/3
By Samista Jugwanth
At its core, theatre is about storytelling, but it offers more than just tales that we need to use our imagination to bring to life. It uses tangible sights and sounds to make the feelings behind the stories real.
In a previous article, we explored what would be of importance in our future society. In this article, we examine five trends that will influence the theatre industry, transforming it into a space that resonates with the needs and desires of future audiences.
#1: Technology Redefining Set Design
Advancements in technology are already reshaping the way set designs are conceived and executed. Gone are the days when elaborate stage sets required bulky equipment and extensive time to transition between scenes. Projection design — a technique where images, videos, and animations are projected onto surfaces to create dynamic environments — is becoming more sophisticated. This allows for greater creative freedom without the constraints of physical props.
Looking ahead, producers will incorporate holography to enhance these projections, making them appear three-dimensional and lifelike. Imagine scenes that seemingly leap off the stage, drawing audiences deeper into the narrative.
Additionally, augmented reality (AR) glasses could add layers of depth and information to a set, enriching the viewing experience without the need for physical elements.
#2: A Theatre for Everyone
Going to the theatre has traditionally been seen as a sophisticated and formal event, often reserved for the privileged. However, the future of theatre promises to be more inclusive and accessible.
Community and outdoor spaces can become stages, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of collective participation. We could see more impromptu-style acts, reminiscent of flash mobs, where performances spring up in unexpected places, inviting everyone to partake in the experience – TNT did something similar in Belgium.
Virtual reality (VR) technology also opens up new possibilities, allowing people from all over the world to be immersed in live performances in real-time. No longer will physical location be a limitation; theatre could reach audiences wherever they are, making it a truly global art form.
#3: The Rise of Two-Way Conversations
Interactive and experimental theatre are gaining popularity as future audiences seek more involvement in the artistic process. Our society increasingly craves instantaneous feedback loops, and theatre is no exception.
Productions such as Sleep No More (New York) and The Drowned Man (London) have already eliminated the "fourth wall"— the imaginary barrier that separates the audience from the performers. In these productions, the audience moves around the space, choosing their own paths and engaging with the performance in a more intimate way.
The future might see even greater levels of interaction. Imagine a theatre where the audience votes digitally on key plot decisions, creating a different story every night. Or perhaps, some audience members are drawn into the performance itself, becoming actors in the unfolding drama. This shift towards a participatory model could redefine what it means to experience a theatrical performance.
#4: The Demand for Authenticity and Challenging Content
With the glamourising of social media and easy access to generative AI, society places high value on authenticity. They are not only interested in the stories told on stage but also in the stories behind the scenes. Following the daily lives of cast members, witnessing their challenges, catfights and triumphs, could become part of the theatrical experience, creating a deeper connection between the performers and the audience.
However, the push for authenticity raises interesting questions about the future of theatre. For instance, as lifelike robots and AI become more advanced, could they one day take the place of human actors?
If so, would audiences still feel a genuine connection to a performance where the actors aren’t real? In a world increasingly dominated by virtual reality, AI, and robotics, there might be a renewed interest in live performances as a way to connect with something real and unmediated.
#5: The Importance of Community and the Environment
The future of theatre will also reflect broader societal shifts towards inclusivity and environmental consciousness. An important theme is identity, which is strongly linked to decolonisation. As we become more aware of the stories of those who have been marginalized, theatre will likely serve as a platform for these voices. The process of decolonization — re-examining historical narratives from multiple perspectives (especially those of the “conquered”) — will become central to theatrical storytelling.
Theatre could also evolve as a medium for investigative journalism. As we've seen with the rise of Netflix releasing true crime documentaries prior to key court cases, there’s a growing appetite for stories that explore social issues in depth. Theatre could bring these issues to life in a way that is both informative and emotionally engaging, creating a powerful tool for raising awareness.
Similarly, the themes of sustainability and environmental responsibility will also take centre stage in future productions. Theatre has the potential to promote sustainable practices and teach accountability for our planet’s condition, aligning with the growing movement of climate activism.
The future of theatre is filled with exciting possibilities. As technology evolves, so too will the ways in which we experience and participate in theatrical performances. From more inclusive and accessible productions to interactive and immersive experiences, the theatre of the future promises to be a dynamic - reflecting the values and desires of our changing society.
© Samista Jugwanth, 2024
Samista is a professional engineer and Technical Director at Zutari. Her specialization is in the design and construction management of water infrastructure. She strongly believes that for infrastructure development to be effective, designs should be human-centered and must be developed through continuous engagement and inclusion of environmental, economic, and social aspects.
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