Sceneteksten som aktiv partner

Abstract

This chapter addresses theatre production working with scripts. First, I look at the hegemonic status of the play text in the history of Western theatre and how this was challenged during the twentieth century. Then I present relevant theoretical perspectives for developing methods integrating script in ensemble theatre. These are drawn from dramaturgy today and physically based improvisation. The main body of the chapter is a case study of a student production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht. The students produced their unique version of the play in collaboration. The study demonstrates how dramaturgical competence was developed as a collective resource. The findings reveal that the dramaturgical processes of text, performance and group dynamics were interdependent in a complex system. Reflexive practice therefore stands out as an important learning point. The chapter is aimed at teachers, directors, facilitators and students in educational contexts, and others that use theatre production as a learning arena.