Stage and screen fight for attention
In 2021, productions with smaller casts and the potential to be performed digitally are favoured
HYBRIDITY continues to shape arts programming in 2021, as live performances and digital offerings compete for audiences' attention. Some companies are lining up Plan A, B and even C - from pure live to pure online shows - should the Covid-19 situation improve, worsen or stay the same, as that has direct impact on the probable number of people allowed into a performance venue.
For the upcoming M1 Fringe Festival, which typically showcases works from all over the world, artistic director Alvin Tan hasn't programmed a live show by a foreign company because of travel restrictions. Only local titles will have live presentations - and even these have guidelines on how rehearsals and performances are to be carried out.
"Also, the live shows can be watched by fewer audiences than usual," says Mr Tan, "so we've taken the extra step of filming these shows and releasing them later as videos-on-demand. Ticket sales for the videos-on-demand will hopefully help make up for the shortfall."
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