Engaging the senses from "summary" of The Function of Song in Contemporary British Drama by Elizabeth Hale Winkler
The concept of engaging the senses is a central theme that runs through the various discussions about the function of song in contemporary British drama. By using music and song in theatrical performances, playwrights and directors are able to tap into a particularly powerful mode of communication that is capable of evoking strong emotional responses in the audience. This is because music has a unique ability to engage the senses in a way that is both immediate and profound. One of the key ways in which music engages the senses is through its use of sound. The auditory experience of music is rich and complex, encompassing a wide range of tones, rhythms, and harmonies that can evoke a wide range of emotions in the listener. In a theatrical context, this auditory experience is often combined with visual and tactile elements to create a multi-sensory experience that is both immersive and immersive. This sensory engagement serves to draw the audience into the world of the play, allowing them to experience the emotions and events of the narrative in a more visceral and immediate way. In addition to engaging the senses through sound, music also has the power to evoke memories and associations that go beyond the immediate sensory experience. This is because music is often deeply intertwined with personal and cultural memories, and can evoke a wide range of emotions and associations in the listener. By using familiar songs or musical styles in a theatrical performance, playwrights and directors can tap into this reservoir of emotion and memory, creating a deeper and more resonant connection with the audience.- The concept of engaging the senses through music and song is a powerful tool that can be used to enhance the emotional impact of a theatrical performance. By creating a multi-sensory experience that draws the audience into the world of the play, playwrights and directors are able to create a more immersive and engaging theatrical experience that resonates with audiences on a deep and profound level.
