Exploring the Spectator / Performer Interface: Architecture as a Catalyst for Interactive Theatre

Abstract

Using the archetype of the ancient theatre as a springboard, this paper explores whether contemporary theatre architecture can retain that traditional form yet intensify the relationship between spectators and performers.  It proposes an alternative approach through a case study of a particular site: Grecian Garden in Yonkers, NY, chosen for its classical motif and symbolic representation of the birthplace of the ancient theatre.  Adapting a theatre program to a classical garden overlooking the Hudson River offers an example of how the spectator/performer boundaries of the theatre space can be blurred to reach the goal of a more interactive and energized performance. For the spectators this can occur by entering and exiting the space across the stage, and for the performers by extending the acting area from the stage into the seating area to minimize the traditional fixed line between the two. In addition, by varying the steepness of the seating, or rake angle, the proposed geometry offers a subtle change in floor elevation between adjacent seats that individualizes each seat, and further loosens the uniformity and rigidity of flat rows. The case study example will be compared to a larger site, using the same geometry, to see if the increased scale of performance area can maintain proximity and interaction between spectators and performers.