This Distracted Globe: Attending to Distraction in Shakespeare's Theatre

This Distracted Globe explores the disruptive, affective, phenomenological, and generative potential of distraction in contemporary performance at the Globe, based on scholarly research, artist experience, and audience behavior.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The notion that the Globe is a distracted space is a shared sentiment among both the original audience of Hamlet and the attendees of the reconstructed theatre on London's Bankside. However, the question of what role distraction plays in this modern performance space remains intriguing. By exploring various perspectives, including scholarly research, artist experiences, and audience behavior, This Distracted Globe delves into the disruptive, affective, phenomenological, and generative potential of distraction in contemporary performances at the Globe.

Distraction has the power to draw attention away from the primary focus of a performance, creating a sense of detachment and disorientation. It can also evoke a range of emotions, such as boredom, frustration, or even excitement, as audiences struggle to engage with the unfolding events. In the context of the Globe, distraction can be seen as a reflection of the complex and multifaceted nature of the play itself.

Hamlet is a play that deals with themes of mortality, grief, and the complexities of human relationships. It is a deeply introspective work that requires a significant investment of time and attention from the audience. However, the modern performance space at the Globe is often characterized by its distractions, such as noise, lighting, and audience movement. These distractions can serve to undermine the immersive experience of the play, making it difficult for audiences to fully engage with the characters and themes.

At the same time, distraction can also be seen as an opportunity for the theatre to challenge and redefine the traditional notion of attention. By creating a space that is intentionally disruptive, the Globe encourages audiences to question their assumptions about what it means to pay attention and to explore new ways of engaging with the text. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the play and a more profound emotional response from the audience.

One example of how distraction can be used in contemporary performances at the Globe is through the use of multimedia elements. Visual projections, sound effects, and interactive installations can be used to create a dynamic and engaging environment that draws attention away from the central stage. These elements can create a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging audiences to explore the space and engage with the play in new ways.

Similarly, the use of physical movement and choreography can also be used to create distractions that draw attention away from the central action. This can be seen in the Globe's production of Shakespeare's Richard III, where the actors' physicality and movement are used to create a sense of tension and chaos that echoes the themes of the play.

Audience behavior is another important aspect of the relationship between distraction and attention in contemporary performances at the Globe. Audience members may engage with the play in a variety of ways, including through active listening, visual interpretation, or even participation in interactive elements. The theatre's ability to respond to these different modes of engagement can create a sense of connection and shared experience between the audience and the performers.

However, it is important to note that distraction can also be a source of frustration for audiences. When distractions are not managed effectively, they can detract from the overall experience of the play. For example, if lighting or sound effects are too loud or distracting, they can make it difficult for audiences to hear or see the actors, which can undermine the impact of the performance.

In conclusion, distraction plays a complex and multifaceted role in contemporary performances at the Globe. While it can be seen as a barrier to engagement, it can also be an opportunity for the theatre to challenge and redefine the traditional notion of attention. By creating a space that is intentionally disruptive, the Globe encourages audiences to explore new ways of engaging with the text and to consider the complexities of human relationships in a modern world. However, it is important for the theatre to manage distractions effectively to ensure that audiences can fully immerse themselves in the experience of the play.

Weight: 96g
Dimension: 125 x 179 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108969901