Precariousness, a spark for creativity or an obstacle for experimentation? The case of Spanish fringe theatre

Abstract

The goal of the present article is to analyse the phenomenon of independent theatre in Spain in order to establish hypotheses and raise issues about the interrelationship between the following three factors: precariousness, creativity and experimentation. The article explores the production conditions that have determined the evolution of Madrid fringe theatre in the past decade and the rising of the multiprogramming. It also establishes hypothesis on how these two factors have conditioned the specific weight of playwriting in Spanish contemporary theatre, at the expense of the spectacularity and the role of the director in the creative process. Given this relationship, the article aims to establish the hypothesis on how production conditions determine, probably more in the performing arts than in any other artistic field, its social function and connection with its contemporary public. In order to produce this article, I have surveyed an array of Madrid theatre professionals, via a brief Internet sample, which has had a response of around 200 people. This sample, that has no other scientific validity than to take a snapshot of the practitioners, focused on the most recent production which they had taken part in. The sample had two simple goals: to relate production conditions with risk-taking and to find out the financial involvement of theatre practitioners in their work. The most relevant results will be shown in graphics. The results of this poll will be referenced throughout this article, and will be referred to as the professionals sample.