The “Theatricality in Choreography” webinar, organised by ARUCAD’s Acting Department, was held on Thursday, 20 November 2025. Independent contemporary dance artist Cansu Ergin joined the session to discuss choreography, improvisation, and the role of theatrical awareness in performance.
Moderated by Şafak Ersözlü, Lecturer in the Acting Department, the webinar explored how theatricality emerges not only through dramatic structure but also through the performer’s awareness of being seen. Drawing from her own artistic practice, Ergin highlighted the central role of the audience in shaping live performance, stating: “For me, one of the strongest elements of performance is the audience. Without the presence of the viewer, the action feels incomplete. This live relationship — sometimes built through a gaze, sometimes through silence or breath — is what gives rise to theatricality on stage.”
Referring to her performance Katre, Ergin discussed the multi-layered relationship between improvisation, music, movement, and space, emphasizing the importance of risk-taking and instant decision-making in choreographic creation. She described improvisation not merely as a method, but as a way of engaging with life, allowing the performer to remain present and responsive.
The webinar continued with a Q&A session, offering students an opportunity to reflect on improvisation, composition, and theatrical presence within contemporary performance practices.
Those who wish to watch the webinar can access the recording via the link below:
🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pY9dOh-LKWo
