As a performer, I am fully aware that the stage is a sacred space where boundaries must be respected between performer and audience. This means that I have an obligation to ensure that my actions do not cross those limits and cause harm to either party involved. Therefore, I always strive to create a safe environment for all participants before, during, and after performances. This includes ensuring that everyone is comfortable with the level of physical contact involved and setting clear expectations about what will happen throughout the performance.
One way to maintain safety is through open communication. Before starting each performance, I take time to explain what will happen and answer any questions the audience may have.
I make sure to listen carefully to their responses so that I can adjust accordingly if necessary. It's important to remember that everyone's comfort levels are different, so it's essential to be flexible enough to accommodate varying preferences.
Another important aspect of safeguarding is knowing when to stop. While some audiences may appreciate more intimate interactions, others may feel uncomfortable or even unsafe. If someone asks me to stop, I immediately comply without hesitation. It's crucial to respect their wishes no matter how much time has passed or how invested I am in the performance.
If a participant expresses discomfort or distress, I stop the show immediately and check in with them to see what they need.
Apart from safety, accountability plays a significant role in theater practice as well. As a queer performer, I understand that my actions carry weight beyond myself and that they can affect entire communities. My goal is always to represent minority groups positively and accurately while avoiding stereotypes or misconceptions that perpetuate harmful ideas.
To achieve this, I conduct extensive research before writing scripts or planning performances. This involves consulting with experts on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc., to ensure authenticity and sensitivity. It also means recognizing where there are gaps in knowledge and seeking out perspectives outside my own experience to fill those gaps. Whenever possible, I collaborate with people who share identities similar to mine, which helps me create meaningful connections between characters and audiences.
Maintaining ethical responsibility in queer performance requires constant attention and effort. By creating safe spaces for all participants, being accountable for our actions, and representing diverse communities authentically, we can make theater a welcoming place for everyone - regardless of their background or beliefs.
What ethical responsibilities do theater practitioners hold regarding participant safety, audience engagement, and social accountability in queer performance?
Theatre practitioners have a significant responsibility towards ensuring the safety of their participants, engaging with their audiences, and being socially accountable in their performances. To begin with, they are responsible for upholding high standards of safety during the production process by adhering to all applicable health and safety regulations such as those related to fire prevention, accident avoidance, and handling hazardous materials.