ADN Satellite Symposium 2018: Dramaturgy & the Political

This session is a review and reflection of ADN, from its conception to its activities thus far. There will also be public discussion on the future direction of the collective, to address the burning needs and gaps in dramaturgical activities in Asia.

This roundtable will discuss some of the current themes and issues of political art that are emerging in Asia. Some of the questions to be discussed include:

• What is the role of the political artist as activist in today's society?
• How does the dramaturg – consciously or unconsciously – incorporate thematic, contextual, structural or form-based approaches that tie in with the dramaturg's notion of the political in art?
• How successful is political art in engaging the immediate society where the artist works in and inhabits?

Focusing on Japanese dramaturgical theory and practice, this panel presents artists and dramaturgs who engage with social change, critique, commentary, or even social action, in a Japanese context.

This session is an open discussion that will continue and expand upon discussion points brought up by participants of past ADN events. Dramaturgs, arts educators and practitioners from around the region will also share their dramaturgical practices within their socio-cultural context. Topics that will be explored include:

• Definitions of 'dramaturgy', 'dramaturg' and 'dramaturging' in an Asian context.
• The etymology of terms used to describe local cultural and social practices in dramaturgy.
• The "Asian" in Asian Dramaturgs' Network.

Art that is purposeful stems from a deep connection with culture, society and politics. This roundtable asks what kinds of leadership roles does the artist assume in one's community and society:

• Can an artistic/festival director advocate ways of thinking about shaping culture, society, politics beyond art appreciation and cultural education?
• How does this draw from dramaturgical thinking and the role of a dramaturg in artistic production?

This session is conducted in English only.

OPEN TO: ADN Invitees only