ABSTRACT
Preparing for a post-show talkback may be a nerve-racking experience for most dramaturgs. However, that nervousness may turn into fear when one knows that the subject matter of the play, or the concept of the production, has the potential to arouse visceral, and potentially physical, reactions in an audience during a talkback experience. I am defining this type of subject matter as concepts that are controversial in today’s society and politics. These concepts include, but are not limited to racism, sexism, ageism, homophobia, and extreme political agendas. When leading a discussion that incorporates potentially sensitive subjects, a dramaturg should view this as an opportunity to learn how the theatre’s constituents view these issues, as opposed to succumbing to fear and anxiety. This article seeks to provide a practical guide to frame audience conversations on productions that address volatile subjects or representations. In addition, this article seeks to discuss the categories of audience members who may attend a talkback and how to use the strength and weaknesses of those categorizations to create a valuable educational experience for the participants.
