Future proof theatre: readiness to accept technology among Lithuanian artists

• In Event: Developments in Baltic Theater

Abstract

In years 2020 and 2021 the theatres worldwide could no longer perform in the usual premises, and rehearsals were constantly interrupted due COVID-19 pandemic related restrictions. These unprecedented circumstances significantly changed the usual processes of creative work throughout the sector. Theatre makers reacted differently to the new conditions. From perspective of communication at least three distinctive strategies have emerged. First two could be termed indirect and direct mediatization to use terminology proposed by Stig Hjarvard (2013). An instance of indirect mediatzation in theatre could be pre-recorded performance made available online. The direct mediatization of theatre, however, would mean a production made without any physical equivalent and intended for experiencing online. The third, hybrid strategy, which became popular in Lithuanian theatre, was invented long before the pandemic broke – streaming live performances in cinemas, would be a notable example. In this paper indirect, direct and hybrid mediatization of theatre will be discussed with a particular focus on technology acceptance among Lithuanian theatre makers. The paper argues, that pandemic experiences in 2020 and 2021 might form a basis for the sustainability of mediatized theatre and thus are important factors for future proofing of theatre.

Short Bio

Martynas Petrikas (dr.) is an associate professor at Faculty of Communication of Vilnius University. His recent research focus includes development of digital theatre with special emphasis on its political and social implications as well as its international dimension. M. Petrikas has published articles and made numerous presentations at conferences, his key publications are contributions to collective monographs “Post-Soviet Lithuanian Theatre: History, Identity, Memory” (in Lithuanian, 2014) and “History of Polish Theatre” (Cambridge University Press, 2022).

Author

• Martynas Petrikas, Vilnius University