The function of narrative in public space
What is it about?
In an examination of how witnessing autobiographical stories through a performance onstage affects audiences, this article considers the function of narrative in public space. Its key focus lies on exploring the concept of witnessing through an analysis of the audience’s reception of two autobiographical storytelling performances in Northern Ireland. It argues that, in today’s ‘therapeutic culture’, people are used to, prepared and therefore keen to hear from personal experiences and emotions.
Why is it important?
This article aims to further the understanding of witnessing suffering of others in public space and the impact this can have on a wider society coming out of conflict. It explaines that while listeners may identify with portrayed emotions, they also seem to yearn to return to ‘real’ emotions in an environment of emotional commodification. The article applies a wide-angle of critical analysis to today’s social landscape, managing to include numerous opposing perspectives.