A study of liveness in online performance

Abstract

This dissertation sets out to analyse the ever-increasing digital influence on theatre by discussing the latter in relation to online performance and by comparing the nature of online and live performance. The research problem I will be tackling rests on the question of whether online performance can be considered as containing liveness. I will be taking on this issue by discussing online performance in relation to different elements of performance such as spectatorship, the role of the actor, and the performance space. This will allow me to recognise the difference between the two types of performance, helping me in identifying the impact that online performance has on live performance and vice-versa. My research will be supported by two expert interviews which will help me with my findings. In the end, the aim of my research is to contribute critically to the recognition that digital technology is ever-changing, and thus so are the performance methods and definitions that people had been used to.