Introduction
The Collaborative Project in IB Theatre challenges students to create original theatre as an ensemble. One of the first and most important steps is choosing and exploring starting points. A strong starting point can spark creativity, inspire experimentation, and guide the ensemble toward a unified vision. A weak or underdeveloped starting point, however, often leads to confusion and unfocused theatre-making.
This guide will show you how to use starting points effectively in the Collaborative Project to maximize creativity and meet assessment criteria.
Quick Start Checklist
- Brainstorm a wide range of possible starting points.
- Select one that excites the whole ensemble.
- Explore the starting point through improvisation and discussion.
- Connect it to research, theory, and world theatre traditions.
- Reflect on discoveries and refine your direction.
Why Starting Points Matter
Starting points shape the entire Collaborative Project. Examiners look for ensembles that:
- Explore starting points creatively and critically.
- Use them to guide experimentation and rehearsal.
- Connect them to practitioner theory or world traditions.
- Reflect on how the starting point evolved into performance.
A strong starting point doesn’t dictate the final performance—it acts as inspiration and a springboard for discovery.
Examples of Effective Starting Points
1. Visual Images
- A photograph, painting, or piece of abstract art.
- Sparks discussion about themes, mood, or symbolism.
