devising

Devising is a method of theatre-making in which a group collaboratively creates a performance from ideas, research, interviews, or improvisation, rather than following a pre-written script. The resulting work may include text, movement, sound, and design, but the authorship is shared among participants and collaborators rather than attributed to a single playwright.

The devising process is typically concept-driven and iterative. A theme or question leads to workshops, improvisations, and the collection of material from participants or sources. This material is then edited, organized, and dramatized through rehearsal, with directors, performers, dramaturgs, and designers contributing to structure, pacing, and dramaturgy. Documentation and reflection during the process can inform subsequent revisions.

Devised theatre contrasts with traditional play development by prioritizing process over a fixed text. It is frequently used in contemporary theatre, community projects, education, and festival performances because it can include non-professional performers and draw on diverse material and perspectives. The approach supports collaboration, risk-taking, and experimentation, but it can also raise questions of authorship, credit, and production governance.

Historically, devising emerged as a prominent practice within experimental and community theatre in the late 20th century and remains widespread in contemporary stage work. Notable companies and practitioners have helped popularize the approach, but there is no single canonical method; approaches vary by company, discipline, and project.

See also: devised theatre, collaborative creation, dramaturgy.