Research Day into Radio Drama.

As I was struggling to write my PRP proposal form I decided to crack on with some research into the theory and logistics of radio drama. Although I have studied radio drama practically for the past two years I feel it is important that I learn as much about the art form as possible so that I can utilize it properly within my project. The book I chose to read is 'Radio Drama' by Tim Crook. It seems to be a very interesting read that will provide me with knowledge in, not only the practicalities of writing a radio drama but also in the history and social communication theory's contexts.  

As Brecht is one of my favorite practitioners  - using theatre as a medium to help provide momentum for social and political change - I was pleasantly surprised to see he had commented on radio and its usages. However, his overall views on radio drama were not massively positive. As a practitioner, Brecht believed in having a collaborative audience rather than a passive audience. He believed the worst hindrance in theatre performances was audiences feeling 'sympathy'; this meant being passive and being passive meant not taking action for change. He wants the audience to feel at the edge of there seat participating in the action so that they can leave the theatre propelled to make a difference. In these regards, Brecht felt that radio drama was wasted unless there was some form of participation. Although this may appear like it has stumped my research, it actually had quite the opposite effect. A key element to feeling 'empathy' for another human being, from my experience, is through listening. Therefore, relying on a medium that involves only audio attention is of great importance; it not only reinforces but also teaches the value of listening. 

T.S Elliot below,however, writes a bit about the positive impacts of radio and words.

Although not fully relevant to my research project as such, I feel the imagery of the Electrophone or Theatrophone is something that will stay with me for a long time. As a person it is relevant to me as I believe that drama is a very positive and beneficial tool that should be accessible to everybody. I love the fact that, even in 1881, they were finding ways to reach people that couldn't get to the theatre. (Obviously I realise that this was at a cost and so therefore it did not fully succeed. I just love the ethos behind it). 

 

As stated above, not all was lost with Brecht's theory as 'audience participation' was finally utilized. As my radio drama will be 30 minutes long, this is obviously something that wouldn't be able to be incorporated into my piece easily. I also do not find it fully necessary at present. 

Important to note that everyone can access it! Also gives people a voice.  

Reinforces sound communication ideas. 

^^Indicates that there is some research in my area of study. 

Overall, I thought today's study session went very well. It felt good to be in the library for 7 hours doing some productive work, I find the more I research and read the more confident I become in the execution of my work. Research is about learning all aspects of a topic then managing to pin point the key aspects needed for the project. I am going to continue in this manner with my reading and I am excited for more information I will discover along the way! As the due date for my proposal is approaching with increasing speed I really need to begin homing in on my aim and plan so that I can really get into the teeth of my project. The next week will be about getting the form en pointe! 

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