‘What are the most effective collaborative strategies to seamlessly integrate instrumental music and theatre in family performances?’ by Inge Mulder

The aim of this research is to elaborate on the most effective collaborative strategies for seamlessly integrating instrumental music and theatre into family performances. To create context and background, this research addresses the anticipated role and dynamic evolution of instrumental music in theatre. The theoretical framework consists out of the ‘issue of narrativity’ (Meelberg, 2008c) which focusses on frame of reference influence, according to Robert Zatorre (2005), combined with insight from the models of collaboration: ‘het Kompas’ (Bremekamp et al., 2010), ‘the five dysfunctions of a team’ (Lencioni, 2002) and the ‘forming–storming–norming–performing model of group development’ (Tuckman, 1965). This research examines the methods of organizations such as Oorkaan and Het Houten, mapping the established frameworks for instrumental music and theatre. Throughout these theories the complex reality of collaborations within the characteristics of family performances (i.e. a linear progression with a cyclical feel) is systematically described and analyzed, resulting in a new conceptual model. The model was tested by conducting semi-structured interviews combined with field research. Findings were that the sharper the definition of the target group, the clearer the cooperation and the more distinctive the product. This outcome becomes a realistic goal when the direction and associated process is clear. Furthermore, the framework can be used as a tool for those wishing to enter the field of interdisciplinary collaboration between theatre and music, with a focus on family performances. It is relevant for graduates in order to achieve a successful collaboration. They need to overcome challenges at the start of their career due to lack of knowledge of each other’s discipline.

Introduction

The research is driven (motivation) by the recognition of the integral role that music plays in theatre, despite the fact that theatre and music are often considered separate disciplines, each with its own world and education. The key question that arises concerns the boundaries of a discipline and whether music can even be considered monodisciplinary. These considerations in turn raise questions about the role of the musician in the contemporary context and which collaborative strategies are crucial for successful interdisciplinary collaborations.

This research focuses on the pursuit of a seamless fusion between theatre and music, with a specific focus on family performances. For young music graduates, it is challenging when the familiar frameworks of education fall away and practical guidelines are needed. The aim of this research is therefore to explore whether some kind of manual can be developed as a guide for starting interdisciplinary collaborations, especially focusing on family performances.

An additional problem is the observation that many music performers have not had theatre training, and conversely, actors (theatre-makers) often lack sound musical training. This lack of knowledge of each other's discipline can lead to communication problems and challenges in achieving a successful collaboration. Especially in the case where a theatre-maker does not understand the language of music and the musician lacks the theatre jargon, the question arises how such a marriage can last.

Moreover, a standardized manual for creating family performances is currently not available. From the perspective of 'classically trained musicians', there is no standard subject on collaborative strategies in the interdisciplinary field. The study aims to address these gaps in knowledge and practice and ultimately contribute to the development of an effective and accessible manual for those wishing to enter the field of interdisciplinary collaboration between theatre and music, with a specific focus on family performances.

Such guidelines will answer the main question:‘What are the most effective collaborative strategies to seamlessly integrate instrumental music and theatre in family performances?’

For this research, a triangulation of methods used included journaling, descriptive research, observations, experimental research, and field research. The research hypothesis for this main question: collaborative strategies that prioritise clear communication, flexibility and knowledge sharing encourages with trust as a foundation will lead to seamless integration of live music and theatre in family performances, resulting in greater audience engagement, emotional impact and artistic craftmanship.

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Inge Mulder - ‘What are the most effective collaborative strategies to seamlessly integrate instrumental music and theatre in family performances?’ - 2024