Chapter 15Audiences and Talkbacks
Many theatres have built devoted audiences for Play Readings who appreciate hearing new work. Merely attending a Reading provides audiences with a chance to participate indirectly in the development process.
Audience Reaction
In performance, an audience’s reaction is critical to helping me understand whether the work is succeeding. It is almost impossible for the audience not to be truthful about their emotional and intellectual engagement. If they are focused on the stage then they are involved. It is a much more important test than whether they say they like or dislike it.
David Esbjornsen, Director
Theatres and playwrights should give audiences a chance to interact with new work. It’s through this ...
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