When you think of theater, you probably picture a script, complete with dialogue, stage directions, scenes and settings, a couple of named characters, and a playwright’s written vision. But what happens when there’s no script to start with— just experimentation, improvisation, and collaboration? That’s the magic of devised theater.
Curious? Let’s dig into what devised theater is, how you can start experimenting with it, and why it’s taking the modern theater world by storm.
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Devised theater is theater without a roadmap—or at least not a traditional one. Instead of starting with a script, it begins with an ensemble coming together to create something from scratch. Everyone (yes, everyone!) contributes ideas, whether they’re actors, directors, designers, or even musicians. The piece evolves through improvisation, trial and error, and lots of creative dialogue.
This unique, ensemble-driven process has been reshaping how stories are created and performed, and it’s becoming a go-to method for performers and creatives looking to explore fresh, innovative ways of working. It's revolutionary, it's experimental, and it's breaking the mold.
So what exactly makes devised theater stand out?
- Collaboration is at its core. Everyone in the room is a creator, not just a performer.
- It’s experimental. The process often blends different forms, like movement techniques, music, multimedia art, and traditional drama.
- It’s flexible. Stories and themes shift and grow as the ensemble works together.
Though it may feel avant-garde, devised theater isn’t an entirely new concept. It has roots in experimental movements like Jerzy Grotowski’s Poor Theatre, which stripped productions down to their essentials, and the Living Theatre, which pushed the boundaries of political and social storytelling. These traditions have influenced countless modern practitioners, who are finding new ways to tell stories through collaboration.
Today, devised theater feels more relevant than ever. It’s an immersive art form that welcomes diverse voices and ideas, and it thrives in a creative climate that values innovation and inclusivity.
What Is Immersive Theater?
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Ready to try your hand at devising? Here are a few exercises to get started. These are great for rehearsals, workshops, or just experimenting with a group of friends.
1. The group story circle
Sit in a circle and take turns adding one sentence (or even just one word) to a story. Each word or sentence builds on the last, creating a narrative that’s completely unique to your group. It’s a great way to spark ideas and get everyone in sync.
2. Image-based storytelling
Grab a stack of photos, illustrations, or even abstract art. Choose an image and create a short scene or monologue inspired by it. This is a great way to find unexpected angles for your story.
3. Physical improvisation
Words aren’t always necessary. Have the group explore a theme or emotion using only movement. Notice how gestures, posture, and physical interactions can tell a story all on their own.
4. The hot seat
Character development time! Each person takes turns sitting in the “hot seat,” where they’re asked questions in character by the group. It’s a fun way to build backstories, relationships, and motivations.
5. Soundscapes
Using only your voices or found objects, create a sound environment that represents a specific setting or mood. This exercise can lead to powerful atmospheric moments in your final piece.
If you’re looking for inspiration, these companies are masters of the craft.
1. Complicité (UK)
Known for their visually stunning productions, this London-based company blends text, imagery, and physicality in groundbreaking ways.
2. Frantic Assembly (UK)
Frantic Assembly’s productions are emotionally charged and visually dynamic, often using movement and dialogue in surprising ways.
3. Pig Iron Theatre Company (USA)
Based in Philadelphia, Pig Iron is known for its fearless exploration of hybrid forms, from clowning to dance to dramatic performance.
4. SITI Company (USA)
Grounded in Viewpoints and Suzuki methods, SITI Company creates ensemble- driven work that emphasizes movement and physicality.
5. The Wooster Group (USA)
This New York company pushes boundaries with experimental pieces that incorporate multimedia and bold storytelling techniques.
1. “The B-Side” by The Wooster Group
Delving into the history and culture behind a 1965 album, this devised piece blends music and monologues in an unforgettable way.
2. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Frantic Assembly
This adaptation uses collaborative real-time choreography to bring the protagonist’s inner world to life.
3. “The Encounter” by Complicité
With its combination of cutting-edge sound design and storytelling, this one-man show takes audiences on a journey deep into the Amazon rainforest.
4. “Sleep No More” by Punchdrunk
An immersive, site-specific reimagining of “Macbeth,” this ever-evolving show lets audiences wander through a richly designed space at their own pace.
5. “Things I Know to Be True” by Frantic Assembly
Frantic Assembly’s signature physicality combines with a poignant exploration of family dynamics to make a truly moving show.
Devised theater isn’t just a way of making theater—it’s a way of thinking. It’s about trusting the creative process, having faith in your fellow actor, and embracing the unknown. The beauty of this medium is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it, just as long as it’s uniquely yours.
