Cogito has it pretty much nailed, but it isn't always to the extent he's describing. To use a movie example, think Ferris Bueller's Day Off. It isn't always super intrusive.
It also could be as simple as a character being aware they are in a play, even if they don't directly address the audience. Think Rosencranzt and Guildenstern are Dead. Some of the characters have a degree of awareness that they are putting on a show, but they don't spend a lot of time addressing the audience directly.
It means involving the audience in the production - such as engaging some of them in conversation (while in character) before the plays starts, during the intermissions, etc, or even during the play itself.
Some people think that this is desirable, fun, challenging, improves the experience.
Personally I hate it, because if I wanted to be 'part of the performance' I would have become an actor. When I go to the theatre I want to see, hear and be entertained, not embarrassed and made to feel really uncomfortable.
The last time I was in that situation I got up and walked out - and so did a lot of others - and demanded my money back. I got it, too!
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Cogito has it pretty much nailed, but it isn't always to the extent he's describing. To use a movie example, think Ferris Bueller's Day Off. It isn't always super intrusive.
It also could be as simple as a character being aware they are in a play, even if they don't directly address the audience. Think Rosencranzt and Guildenstern are Dead. Some of the characters have a degree of awareness that they are putting on a show, but they don't spend a lot of time addressing the audience directly.
It means involving the audience in the production - such as engaging some of them in conversation (while in character) before the plays starts, during the intermissions, etc, or even during the play itself.
Some people think that this is desirable, fun, challenging, improves the experience.
Personally I hate it, because if I wanted to be 'part of the performance' I would have become an actor. When I go to the theatre I want to see, hear and be entertained, not embarrassed and made to feel really uncomfortable.
The last time I was in that situation I got up and walked out - and so did a lot of others - and demanded my money back. I got it, too!