FORCED ENTERTAINMENT: AND ON THE THOUSANDTH NIGHT (2000) HOW DO ACTORS DEVIATE FROM THE THEATRICAL CONVENTIONS IN AND ON THE THOUSANDTH NIGHT?

Abstract

The performance "And on the Thousandth Night" by Forced Entertainment is a captivating exploration of endurance, storytelling, and the transformative power of narratives. Premiered in 2000, this production is characterized by its ambitious scope: an uninterrupted, improvised six-day performance where six performers undertake the daunting task of narrating stories continuously for 144 hours. Central to the performance is the notion of storytelling as a fundamental human activity—a means of making sense of the world, connecting with others, and creating meaning amid chaos. The endurance aspect of the performance reflects a profound investigation into the limits of storytelling and human resilience. The production's title, "And on the Thousandth Night," suggests a cyclical, endless narrative journey—an invitation to dive deep into the vast possibilities of storytelling. Each performer takes on the role of a storyteller, weaving together diverse narratives, genres, and characters over the course of the performance. This experimental format challenges traditional notions of theatre, inviting audiences to reconsider the boundaries of performance art and the nature of spectatorship. The absence of a fixed script or narrative arc foregrounds spontaneity and improvisation, emphasizing the raw, unfiltered nature of live storytelling. Moreover, the performance underscores the communal aspect of storytelling, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between performers and audiences. As spectators witness the unfolding stories in real-time, they become active participants in the creative process, co-creating meaning through collective engagement. "And on the Thousandth Night" exemplifies Forced Entertainment's signature blend of innovation, risk-taking, and conceptual rigor. By pushing the boundaries of duration and improvisation, the production challenges conventional norms and offers a profound meditation on the transformative potential of narrative.