Sustainability in the Performing Arts

Abstract

Are old ways sustainable? This article aims to explore the dynamics between the traditional modes of what constitutes performance and the need for increasing resources in a dynamic and digital world. The performance art disciplines of musicianship, acting and dance have been taught for centuries by utilizing the traditional resources of instruction, instruments, and studio space. The paper examines the sustainability of traditional learning formats in the digital age and how the studio practice techniques challenge and offer resources for the 21st Century Performance Artist. While modes of presenting performance work have changed, the basic fundamental structure of practice and preparation remain the foundation of training. Examining the current practices of performing arts training, as well as trends and data from research drivers, which examine the quality of life generated by performance arts, the presentation will argue that Performance Artists presume sustainable of careers.