ABSTRACT
This chapter explores participant observation of audience behavior at theatrical events through the evaluation of a case study, and introduces participant observation and then presents an overview of the Deutsches Theater project. There are certain aspects of participant observation that are often misunderstood in audience research and emerge as hindrances, often compromising the potential for rigorous research. These include semi-structured interviews and the seldom-discussed issue of researcher insecurity. The chapter deals with several techniques to assist researchers in overcoming insecurity in approaching audience members. These techniques can be applied to any form of audience research involving direct audience recruitment. In order to capture performances’ phenomenological aspects, it is vital that audience research commence with participant observation. In audience research at theatrical events, the aspects of participant observation most relevant are the research question, climate setting, and the inclusion of interviews.
