Creative problem solving for specific safety hazards within selected theatre arts productions
Loading...
Date
2020-07
Authors
Hattingh, Maryna Gertruida Maria
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
The purpose of this dissertation was to outline the potential safety hazards that can occur during the pre-production and performance phase in the backstage areas of the theatre and onstage. Three texts Noises off, Macbeth and Dogg's Hamlet, are analysed using the script analysis technique to determine what possible safety hazards can be found in the texts. The researcher performs a visual analysis to identify how the potential safety hazards can be creatively solved during the pre-production, rehearsal and performance stages of the plays. By means of a literature study, an in-depth study of the relevant literature on all aspects of theatre safety, and the MA and PhD degrees of Nel formed an essential basis of the research. The researcher focused on set construction, lighting, props, costumes, and the action of the actors on stage. The processes and procedures of each backstage area were discussed, and recommendations on the avoidance of safety hazards were given. The texts of Noises off (2001), Macbeth (1606) and Dogg's Hamlet (1979) were analysed from a technical viewpoint with the researcher focusing on the set construction, handling of props, stage combat and actors movements. The potential safety hazards were discussed and listed in grids along with the specific scene. Firstly, Noises off was analysed with the focus on set design and construction along with actors movements as possible safety hazards. Next, Macbeth was analysed with the focus on stage combat and the use of props as potential safety hazards. Lastly, as with Macbeth, Dogg's Hamlet was analysed with the emphasis on the use of props and stage combat as possible safety hazards. The visual analysis of Noises off (2018), Macbeth (2013) and Dogg's Hamlet (2019) were conducted based on the text analysis previously done. The focus was on the pre-production, rehearsal and performance stages of the three plays to determine how the potential safety hazards were creatively solved and avoided. The solution to the identification of safety hazards was also listed in a grid format with the text analysis and visual analysis listed side by side. With careful planning and rehearsals, safety hazards could be avoided. The actors' movements and fight scenes were the most hazardous activities, but the actors overcame those hazards with safety consciousness. In conclusion, the method applied in this study and the research findings can be applied as a basis for analysing play texts and specifically identifying possible safety hazards. This dissertation also provides ideas on how to creatively prevent and solve the hazards found to ensure the safety of all participants in production.
Description
Keywords
Dissertation (M.A. (Drama and Theatre Arts))--University of the Free State, 2020, Dogg's Hamlet, Macbeth, Noises off, Safety hazards, Theatre industry, Visual analysis, Theatre accidents