What does theatre look like during the pandemic?

 In early 2020 when communities began shutting down in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19, theatre-makers around the globe scrambled to find ways to continue creating art. Thousands of educational and professional theatres lost revenue as a result of the pandemic. However, as the pandemic has endured, theatre artists have found creative solutions to continue their work and bring theatre to the public in various virtual formats. 

 As a theatre student and an emerging theatre professional, I have experienced the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on my industry. I have also had the privilege of participating in several innovative digital theatre productions over the past year. 

I have seen several techniques in the past year that have made for engaging digital theatre experiences. Some of these innovations include: utilizing pre-recorded video clips with special effects, creating virtual programs for audiences to peruse before and after the show, and creating Google Forms for audiences to share praise with the cast. 

As difficult as it is to create virtual theatre, the challenges of performing in my parents' home instead of onstage have helped me grow immensely as a theatre artist. I have also learned more than I ever expected to know about Zoom audio settings. 

This is a video of my rehearsal/performance space for Loyola University Chicago's 

virtual production of The Wolves, posted to @luctheatreprogram on Instagram.

Although virtual theatre remains vastly different from in-person theatre, artists and audiences have found ways to connect and experience theatre despite the pandemic, which is more important now than it has ever been. Art is always crucial to humanity, but especially during times of crisis.