Investigating Contextual Factors
Investigating Contextual Factors in Performing Arts
Historical Context
- This refers to the period when the work was created and first performed. All aspects of society influence work of art - fashion, politics, technology, laws, and beliefs.
- It's important to understand the historical context to fully grasp the intentions and messages of the performance.
- Factors that could be examined include major historical events, predominant values and ideologies, and the socio-political climate.
Cultural Context
- This deals with the beliefs, practices, and characteristics of a particular group, society, or time period. Cultural context can give a performance deep significance to its intended audience.
- Includes religion, traditions, customs, behaviours, arts, and social institutions prevalent at the time of the performance.
- Performers and creators often draw on cultural context to add layers of resonance and meaning to their work.
Social Context
- This is related to societal issues, trends, and realities at the time of the performance. The role and views of family, friends, and wider community, gender roles, and economic status can greatly influence a performance.
- Examining social context can inform an understanding of the perceived roles and functions of performing arts within society.
- Issues such as poverty, social justice, discrimination, and equality can be seen as influences in the creative process.
Technological Influences
- Investigating technological influences involves examining any technological advancements that might affect or have affected the performance.
- This can range from improvements in lighting, sound, and set design to digital technology like CGI or virtual reality.
- The adoption and interaction with technology can significantly enhance or alter the performance, and sometimes even form the basis of the performance itself.
Political Context
- The political climate during a performance’s creation can greatly affect the final product.
- Works may be a response to, or commentary on, political events, societal changes or crises that are happening or have recently occurred.
- Examining political context includes investigating political structures, decisions, events and ideologies of the time.
Critical Interpretation
- Critical interpretation involves contextualising a piece of work within the wider critical discourse.
- This includes understanding how critics, scholars, audiences, and other practitioners have responded to the work.
- By examining critical interpretation, you can gain insight into varying interpretations of the work's meaning, value, and impact.