Following my recent conversation with a set designer, the topic of sustainability in the theater takes center stage in my third blog post. Right from the beginning, I addressed the impacts of digitization on theater organization and introduced the concept of a cross-theater, potentially international, repository. The question of how digitization can contribute to making theater more sustainable serves as the starting point for this exploration.
Sustainable practices in the theater span various areas, from conception to execution. It’s not just about how a performance looks on stage but also about how it is crafted and how the entire production process is organized.
The primary challenge lies in responsibly sourcing and disposing of materials. However, it is precisely within this challenge that the opportunity arises to bring new creative and artistic ideas to the stage. In the upcoming sections, we will delve into various aspects of sustainability in the theater.
Sustainable Design
The sustainable journey begins with the conception of productions. A collaborative effort is made to work on a vision for producing plays more sustainably. It is crucial to understand that the uniqueness of a set design does not necessarily require the construction or purchase of new elements. Sustainable design means intelligently using existing resources and ensuring meaningful reuse or proper recycling.
Model Construction:
In the design process, model construction plays a crucial role. The question arises whether materials can be recycled or if physical model construction can be entirely avoided through the use of CAD modeling and visualization.
Costume Design:
The integration of sustainable principles also extends to costume design. Visualizing costumes in 3D allows for testing different fabrics before making the actual purchase. Combining existing costume pieces or using innovative textiles represents steps toward sustainable production.
Planning and Communication
The internal organization of theater operations plays a crucial role in sustainability. Effective communication and collaboration reduce working hours, optimize the budget, and create a smoother workflow. Long-term planning phases provide time for construction and material research, while regular discussions prevent unnecessary work and material waste.
The transport of sets and materials requires careful planning. Consolidating schedules, avoiding long travels, and increased use of online communication are steps in the right direction. A well-organized repository catalog reduces the need for frequent repository and material inspection appointments, while timely communication of developments helps minimize material consumption
Sustainable working demands a shift in work practices. It requires more time, leading to adjustments in schedules and budgets. A flexible workflow allows for the effective integration of sustainable decisions. A challenge that can be overcome through collaborative work and a shared commitment to sustainability.
New Tools and Processes
Processes for props, costumes, and set design must adhere to sustainable guidelines. Inventorying the material stock in-house creates transparency and helps avoid the purchase of inappropriate materials.
Conscious Use of Materials: Responsible Procurement and Usage
The primary challenge undoubtedly lies in the responsible handling of materials. Yet, it is precisely within this challenge that the opportunity arises to develop and bring new creative and artistic ideas to the stage.
The procedures for props, costumes, and set design must follow sustainable guidelines. A clear inventory of the material stock in-house creates transparency and avoids the purchase of unsuitable materials. The conscious use of materials also includes the reuse of props and costumes after the completion of a production. Constructions should be designed to be easily deconstructed and recycled.
Environmental Contributions: The Role of the Environment in Sustainability
Even in the conception phase, the avoidance of new materials in favor of recycling sources should be considered. Searching for materials in depots, thrift stores, or second-hand shops opens up sustainable possibilities. An organized and regularly updated repository particularly supports sustainability.
Material Source: The Origin and Afterlife of Materials
A material hierarchy considers the life before and after of each material. In the envisioned circular economy, certain materials can be excluded or considered for alternative uses. The question of the origin and fate of materials when no longer needed is central to sustainable decision-making. The following material hierarchy indicates how each material source affects sustainability.
„Die Kultur ist dafür prädestiniert, sich eine alternative Zukunft vorzustellen und mit dieser Vision zu experimentieren, den Status Quo in Frage zu stellen, die Welt anders zu sehen und die Zukunft mit dem Publikum und Mitwirkenden neu zu denken. Nur wenn die Kultur ihren Teil dazu beiträgt, dass sich die heutige und zukünftige Gesellschaft in Richtung einer nachhaltigeren Lebensweise entwickelt, wird dieser grundlegende Wandel gelingen.“
Creative Carbon Scotland, 2020
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