Stephen Johnson Lecture Tickets

On April 9, 2019, Stephen Johnson delivered a lecture on "The Power of the Theatrical Experience" at the University of Calgary. As a renowned theatre director and producer, Johnson has years of experience in creating immersive and dynamic theatrical performances. During his lecture, he addressed the role of theatre in society and how it provides a unique way of experiencing art.

Johnson began by explaining how live theatre can create an emotional connection with the audience. Unlike watching a film or reading a book, live theatre offers a shared experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere. The actors are right in front of you, breathing the same air as the audience, and their performances can evoke strong emotions that resonate within each individual.

Furthermore, Johnson also emphasized the importance of theatre as a medium for storytelling. Theatre has a rich history of presenting stories that challenge social norms, question authority, and explore themes that are pertinent to society. Plays such as Shakespeare's "Hamlet," Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire," and Tony Kushner's "Angels in America" have pushed boundaries and created new perspectives on important issues.

Johnson also discussed how theatre has evolved over time, noting that modern productions often incorporate multimedia elements to enhance the theatrical experience. From projection screens to augmented reality, technology is being integrated into theatre in increasingly innovative ways. Johnson cited the example of Simon McBurney's production of "The Encounter," which used binaural microphones to create a fully immersive audio experience for the audience.

Throughout his lecture, Johnson highlighted the importance of theatrical experiences and how they can have a profound impact on individuals. By presenting stories that confront the human condition, theatre allows viewers to reflect on their own perspectives and encourage them to think critically about the world around them.

In conclusion, Stephen Johnson's lecture at the University of Calgary provided a compelling and insightful exploration of the power of theatre. Through his own experiences as a director and producer, Johnson highlighted the unique emotional and storytelling potential of theatre, demonstrating how it can inspire and enlighten audiences. As our society continues to change and evolve, we can be sure that theatre will remain a vital medium for examining ourselves and the world we live in.