Eco-scenography and sustainable theatre production

Abstract

In this discussion Tanja Beer and David Vivian present approaches to sustainability and eco-scenography in the pedagogy of production and design at postsecondary theatre training programmes. Perceptual and practical barriers to sustainability within professional theatre cultures are discussed and analysed, as are the types of resources and teaching strategies that can be implemented to best include sustainability in curricula and pedagogy. Emphasis is placed on moments in contemporary theatre/performance practice that can be used as examples that emerging professionals might pursue and emulate. Instructors are invited to consider the significance of Indigeneity and decolonization as part of teaching and learning strategies. Consideration is given to work around systems thinking, the circular economy, bio-inspired design, biophilia and regenerative development, and the importance of examining precedents across art, architecture, interior, installation and theatre design.