Contemporary European Theatre Dance and the Commons: Unlocking the Power of Collaborative Creation

The landscape of contemporary European theatre dance is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse artistic expressions and innovative collaborations. At the heart of this thriving ecosystem lies a transformative concept: the commons. By embracing the principles of shared ownership, open access, and collective action, theatre dance artists and companies are unlocking the boundless potential of collaborative creation.

Ungoverning Dance: Contemporary European Theatre Dance and the Commons (Oxford Studies in Dance Theory)

by Neil Goodwin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7418 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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The Concept of the Commons

The commons is a resource shared among a community, where individuals and groups have equal access and stewardship responsibilities. In the context of theatre dance, the commons encompasses a range of tangible and intangible assets, including physical spaces, choreographic ideas, artistic knowledge, and collaborative networks.

Shared Spaces: A Catalyst for Creativity

In the European theatre dance scene, shared spaces play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and artistic exploration. From repurposed warehouses to unconventional venues, these communal spaces provide a fertile ground for artists to experiment, develop new work, and share their ideas with the public.

For example, the Tanzfabrik Berlin is a unique example of a shared space that has become a hub for contemporary dance in the German capital. It offers affordable studio rentals, rehearsal spaces, and a residency program that supports emerging artists and international collaborations.

Open Access to Choreographic Ideas

The commons also extends to the realm of choreographic ideas. By sharing their work openly and encouraging others to build upon it, theatre dance artists are creating a collective repertoire that transcends individual authorship.

One notable example is the Open Source Dance Lab, a platform that allows choreographers to share their works-in-progress online and receive feedback from a global community of artists and enthusiasts. This open exchange fosters artistic experimentation and cross-pollination of ideas.

Collective Action: Building Networks and Communities

Collaborative creation in theatre dance extends beyond shared spaces and choreographic ideas. It encompasses the formation of networks and communities that support the development and dissemination of artistic work.

Organizations such as Aerowaves, a European network for young dance artists, facilitate exchange, collaboration, and mentorship opportunities. Through international festivals, residencies, and audience engagement programs, Aerowaves helps artists build connections and showcase their work across bFree Downloads.

The Impact of the Commons on Theatre Dance

The embrace of the commons has had a profound impact on the evolution of contemporary European theatre dance. By fostering collaboration, open access, and collective action, it has:

• Promoted artistic experimentation and innovation: Shared spaces and choreographic resources allow artists to take risks and explore new creative directions.
• Encouraged cross-cultural exchange and dialogue: Networks and communities connect artists from diverse backgrounds, fostering mutual learning and intercultural collaborations.
• Increased the visibility and accessibility of theatre dance: Open access platforms and collective promotion efforts make dance more accessible to audiences and create opportunities for wider recognition.
• Strengthened the sense of community and belonging: Collaborative creation fosters a shared purpose and a strong sense of connection among artists and audiences.

Contemporary European theatre dance is thriving thanks to the transformative power of the commons. By embracing shared ownership, open access, and collective action, artists and companies are unlocking the boundless potential of collaborative creation. The commons has become a catalyst for artistic experimentation, cross-cultural exchange, and a more vibrant and inclusive theatre dance ecosystem.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of this transformative concept, the book Contemporary European Theatre Dance and the Commons: Oxford Studies in Dance offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, theory, and practice of collaboration in European theatre dance.

Through in-depth case studies, interviews with leading artists, and insightful analysis, this groundbreaking publication sheds light on the profound impact that the commons has had on the evolution of contemporary dance. It is an essential resource for anyone passionate about the future of artistic collaboration and the transformative power of shared resources.

Ungoverning Dance: Contemporary European Theatre Dance and the Commons (Oxford Studies in Dance Theory)

by Neil Goodwin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7418 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	265 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE