We have arrived at a point where we must ask, “What is relevant?” Can we still stand on a stage and speak words? Do we need to Twitter the text of a play for it to be noticed? Must we integrate youtube to make it matter? What is necessary?

I like working toward innovation, but I must remain rooted in what is essential. Without being sensitive to the story, an idea/a concept/an image may overwhelm the play. When that happens, it’s painful (usually for the actors as well as the audience).

This line of thinking grows circular. When I hear myself say, “Stay rooted in what is essential—lean on THE STORY,” I sometimes feel this is limiting. But when I get really excited about a new idea, I wonder if I’m already leaving the story behind? This is our challenge: keep things fresh while keeping things meaningful.

I would love to hear your thoughts about what innovation means these days. We have many technological options that have not been incorporated into theatre. But can they? Should they? What does it mean? Will the story be augmented, enhanced? Will the question at the core of the play become clearer due to innovating?

In short, will the story prevail?

-SCC