Defining Theatre - Kevin Birkel

Subject: Definition of Theatre

Theatre is characterized by the use of actors, who present themselves to others in variety of way through the use of certain displays whether it be through, speech, props, gestures, or some other device. Although in the narrow sense, theatre can be associated with the typical play, containing its elaborately designed costumes and specific use of lighting, there is much more to the picture. Theatre could be used in any situation which warrants someone presenting himself before others. Businessperson, for instance, present themselves to others when trying to convince them of their ideas. In doing so, they use similar displays to the actors on stage in order to illustrate their point of view. Think of elaborate charts and graphs containing financial data. Like the props that are used to make the scene of play seem real, the numbers make the businessmen’s proposal sound convincing. The ultimate end for an actor performing in a play is trying to convince the audience that he is actually the character, even though he isn’t. The businessperson is putting on the same kind of performance, trying to convince others that their ideas are the best even though there may be better ones out there. The truth is that we present ourselves before others before others in all areas of life. Therefore theatre is an inherent part of life that we experience on a regular basis.

Written by Kevin Birkel - February 2007
Posted by Kirk Andrew Everist