Industry

Definition

In the context of theatre, 'industry' refers to the various sectors and practices involved in the production, promotion, and distribution of theatrical works. This includes not only the artistic components like directing, acting, and stage design but also the business aspects like marketing, finance, and management that support the creation and success of theatrical performances. The evolution of theatre as an industry during the 18th century marked a shift towards more organized forms of production that catered to the rising bourgeois audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of the theatre industry in the 18th century coincided with increased urbanization and a growing middle class that sought entertainment reflecting their values.
2. The professionalization of theatre saw the establishment of permanent theatres and regular seasons, moving away from temporary performances.
3. Marketing strategies began to develop in this period, including the use of posters and advertisements to attract audiences.
4. The introduction of subscription-based ticketing systems allowed theatres to generate consistent revenue by securing audiences in advance.
5. The combination of artistic ambition with commercial viability led to a competitive environment where productions needed to balance quality with profitability.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of industry in theatre evolve during the 18th century?
  • The concept of industry in theatre evolved significantly during the 18th century as it transitioned from sporadic performances to a more structured and professional model. This included the establishment of permanent venues, organized seasons, and a focus on producing plays that appealed to a growing middle-class audience. The need for financial stability led to innovations in marketing and ticket sales, helping shape a more sustainable theatrical landscape.
• Discuss the impact of bourgeois drama on the theatre industry during the 18th century.
  • Bourgeois drama had a profound impact on the theatre industry during the 18th century by reflecting the values, struggles, and aspirations of the middle class. This genre attracted audiences who identified with its characters and themes, driving demand for productions that catered to this demographic. As a result, playwrights began crafting stories that resonated with bourgeois sensibilities, influencing not only the content but also the commercial strategies employed by theatres seeking to maximize their appeal.
• Evaluate how sentimental comedy contributed to shaping both artistic expression and commercial strategies within the theatre industry in the 18th century.
  • Sentimental comedy played a crucial role in shaping both artistic expression and commercial strategies within the theatre industry by emphasizing emotional engagement and moral lessons. This genre appealed to audiences' desires for uplifting narratives, which in turn encouraged theatres to produce more works that aligned with these themes. The popularity of sentimental comedies also drove marketing efforts to promote shows that guaranteed emotional satisfaction, leading theatres to adapt their business models around audience expectations while fostering a distinct style of theatrical performance.

Related terms

Bourgeois Drama: A genre of drama that emerged in the 18th century focusing on middle-class characters and their moral dilemmas, often emphasizing realism and social issues.

Sentimental Comedy: A theatrical genre popular in the 18th century that aimed to evoke feelings of tenderness and sympathy, often involving a moral lesson.

Commercial Theatre: The segment of theatre that focuses on producing plays for profit, heavily influenced by audience preferences and market trends.