The Risks of Wearing Mr Punch & Other Costumed Performances

    Research output: Contribution to conferencePaper

    Abstract

    In this session, dance artist and lecturer Lorraine Smith will discuss the performative risks of embodying Mr Punch through costume for the piece Six O’clock Swill. This interactive solo is a modern day version of Mr Punch and delves into Society’s relationship with alcohol. Developed through London’s Experimental Cabaret scene, the costume allows Lorraine to change gender and incites her to be extremely mischievous and daring with the audience, with unpredictable outcomes. The use of mask in the piece has also led to several precarious health and safety moments.
    Other examples of Lorraine’s costume specific performances, including interactive, street and outdoor pieces, will also be considered to further explore the risks performers take (usually through choice) when adorning certain costumes for performance.
    The session will particularly focus on how costume can heighten character embodiment, which can empower performers to behave in an impulsive and, at times, precarious manner. Finally, the session will conclude by raising awareness of the importance of makers and performers to fully consider the power and ethics of costume on both the performer and audience.
    Original languageEnglish
    Publication statusPublished - 13 Sept 2018
    EventCritical Costume - An international conference and exhibition - Ivy Arts Centre, University OF Surrey, United Kingdom
    Duration: 12 Sept 201814 Sept 2018
    http://gsauk.org/events/conference/critical-costume-2018-international-conference-and-exhibition

    Exhibition

    ExhibitionCritical Costume - An international conference and exhibition
    Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
    Period12/09/1814/09/18
    Internet address

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