Creating Safe Spaces
Introduction
Creating safe and inclusive spaces refers to establishing an environment in the rehearsal room and performance space that allows all participants to feel comfortable. Performers must be able to be as silly (or as serious) as they need to be in the scene, and it can be difficult for a performer to feel comfortable experimenting with their character if they do not feel comfortable in the rehearsal room. This feeling of safety and inclusion is created through both physical safety and emotional safety. A safe and inclusive space will allow performers to feel confident expressing their ideas, taking risks, and exploring their creativity. This guide will discuss how to create and maintain a safe and inclusive space while rehearsing and performing plays and musicals.
Terminology
- Inclusion: Embracing all members of the team and making them feel valued.
- Personal Boundaries: Personal limits we create to identify reasonable, safe, and acceptable ways we want to be treated.
- Positive No: A way to communicate that you are uncomfortable and would like to pause.
- Safe Space: An environment in the rehearsal room or performance space that allows all participants to feel comfortable.
- Time Out: Taking time to pause and address a situation that is making you uncomfortable.
Context & Analysis
Textual Analysis
When creating a safe and inclusive space, there are two aspects that need to be considered: Physical Safety and Emotional Safety.
Physical Safety
Physical safety refers to the protection from any physical object or harm that may occur during rehearsals and performance. Before a rehearsal or performance can begin, it is important to have an area
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Emma Houlahan
Canadian vocalist and actor now based in London.