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An investigation into female representation in theatre production in northeast Ohio
Thesis   Open access

An investigation into female representation in theatre production in northeast Ohio

Meghan Cvetic
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2020
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001035
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Abstract

Arts--Management Women in the theater Women's Studies
This case study looks to discover if women are underrepresented in theatre production roles in the region of northeast Ohio, which includes the city of Cleveland and other cities to the west of it. Lists of production staff were regarded to discover and calculate the percent of men and women in each position to determine the amount of disparity. In person interviews were conducted, by the author, with twelve women currently living and working in theatre in the target area. Interviewees included at least one woman from each of the production positions and represented a variety of ages and years of work experience. The women were asked questions in order to discover the experiences the individuals had while working in theatre. Similarities were discovered during the interviews about support, personal feelings, gender stereotypes, and barriers. Interviewees gave thoughts and opinions about possible solutions and discussed how they could be implemented to bring about change to allow for gender equality. The outcome of the research shows that gender equality is quite different depending on the production position in question. The more technical positions of set, sound, and lighting designer, which are historically stereotypically associated with the male gender, hold a high majority of men holding these roles. Whereas the positions that are associated with the female gender, which are more artistic including costume designer and choreographer, held a female majority in these positions. Gender stereotypes and lack of female representation in theatre production positions historically were revealed as barriers to current gender parity in these roles. The purpose of this case study was to discover the status of women's involvement in production positions to bring awareness of gender inequality at theatre organizations in the area in order to bring about change toward equality and inspire other regions to follow suit.

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