The theatre stage and the sacred space: A comparison

Abstract

The resemblance between the sacred space and the theatre stage has been noted by scholars in the fields of performance and theatre (Cole, 1975; Schechner, 1973, 1985). Drama therapy theory has mainly focused on concepts such as distance (Landy, 1983; Scheff, 1979), roles (Johnson, 1982; Landy, 1991, 1992), performance (Cohen, 1985; Emunah & Johnson, 1983) and other aspects that are common to theatre/drama and therapy (Jennings, 1988, 1992; Mitchell, 1992; Powley, 1988). In recent writings, Johnson (1992) introduced the concept of playspace to designate the “place where dramatherapy takes place” (p. 113) and Warren (1993) referred to the relevance of space in drama therapy. However, the role of the stage as an element that affects the drama therapy process rarely has been taken into account. This article examines the bond between the sacred space and the theatre stage in terms of its therapeutic value. For this purpose, it first defines the sacred space and traces parallels between its qualities and those of theatrical space. This resemblance is then analyzed in the light of environmental psychology postulates and the Jungian concepts of self and individuation. Finally, some implications of this for drama therapy are stated. As a unique aspect of the performing arts, an understanding of the stage’s therapeutic value is essential to drama therapists. By pointing to the link between sacred and theatre spaces, this paper attempts to put forth ideas, raise questions, bring into focus the quality of the space in which we work and ultimately shed some light upon this otherwise forgotten spot. The Sacred Space: Defining the Archetype