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Open in new tab Linked above are scans from my first few days of work. So far I have focused most of my time on research. I have read two plays so far: The Laramie Project and Canard, Canard Goose. In addition I also read/watched various other sources including an essay by Brecht from the 60s, recent videos from The Public Theater’s production of Coal Country and attending Suzan-Lori Parks’ Watch Me Work.
So far I have learned a lot about Documentary Theater’s history. What I found most interesting was the links between Documentary Theater’s emergence, both in Germany and in the United States, and socio-political upheaval. In Germany this was in response to WWII and in the US this was during the 60s social movements. In both cases there was a clear desire to explain reality and make sense of a changing world.
I also started thinking about what are the most important aspects of the form for when I do start writing my own piece. The two plays I read are very, very different but they were both deeply rooted in place. Additionally, everything I have read has in some way pointed to the incredible importance of clear themes. These two things make me hopeful about my ability to write about my Junior Trip because the character of Harlan is so strong but I am still unsure of what the “arch” of this show will be.
In the first week you seem to have gathered a large amount of research very quickly. You also have very organized notes. I am interested to hear about how the writing part of your project goes.
I think the idea that you mentioned that documentary theater (which I didn’t know was a thing) was derived from a “desire explain reality and make sense of a changing world”. I think that this understanding will really help you shape your show!
I never knew documentary theater was as big as it is. You seem to be very organized in your research 🙂
I love the idea of Harlan as a character. And I am wondering now about what other “characters” are emerging for you.