Ode to the City - An Ethnographic Drama

This ethnographic drama script is based on observations in a UK library, focusing on the staff room room and the characters of four customer experience assistants facing redundancy. It explores political tension in everyday life during austerity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This ethnographic drama script is adapted from extensive observations conducted in a bustling city center library in the United Kingdom. The central narrative revolves around the staff room within the library, where the fictionalized characters of four customer experience assistants find themselves threatened with redundancy. During their lunch and tea breaks, these individuals engage in various activities, showcasing the complexities of their daily lives and the challenges they face amidst the looming threat of job loss.

The ethnographic drama is a captivating blend of field notes, transcripts, audio recordings, video recordings, conversations, and observations. It weaves together a rich tapestry of experiences, capturing the essence of political tension in the everyday lives of individuals during a period of austerity. Through its vivid portrayal, the script offers a poignant reflection on the human impact of economic downturns and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The staff room serves as a microcosm of the larger societal context, reflecting the broader economic and political tensions of the time. The characters, each with their unique backgrounds and perspectives, navigate the complexities of their professional and personal lives as they grapple with the impending redundancy. Their conversations, filled with humor, frustration, and moments of introspection, provide a deep insight into the emotional toll that job insecurity can have on individuals and their relationships.

The script also explores the themes of resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. Despite the adversities they face, the characters find ways to support and uplift each other, forming a tight-knit community within the library. Their shared experiences and collective efforts to navigate the challenges they encounter serve as a testament to the strength of human connection and the ability to find meaning and purpose even in the most difficult circumstances.

The ethnographic drama script is a powerful testament to the value of ethnographic research and its ability to shed light on the hidden realities of everyday life. It offers a unique perspective on the experiences of individuals living in times of economic uncertainty and provides a platform for empathy, understanding, and dialogue. Through its creative storytelling, the script encourages us to reflect on the broader societal implications of economic downturns and the importance of supporting and uplifting those who are most affected.

Dimension: 245 x 174 x 5 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800415164