Defense Date
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Theatre
First Advisor
Dr. Keith Byron Kirk
Second Advisor
Dr. Jesse Njus
Third Advisor
Stephanie Tippi Hart
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Aaron Anderson
Abstract
This thesis examines the role of the fight choreographer in the theatre while addressing the potential issues staged violence has in distracting an audience from the intended narrative of the play. Avoiding the instruction manual approach of stage combat in favor of expounding on the theory of violent entertainment, I have constructed a thesis that informs the reader of certain types of violence found in both classical and modern productions and have researched the psychological ramifications of violent spectatorship and the necessity for content acknowledgements as well as consideration for the performer’s well-being. By exploring the history of violent entertainment and the evolution into the modern audience, I have aimed to inform the reader of the level of tolerance of staged violence particularly in an increasingly violent reality outside of the theatre.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
4-28-2026
Included in
Acting Commons, Dramatic Literature, Criticism and Theory Commons, Medieval Studies Commons, Other Theatre and Performance Studies Commons, Performance Studies Commons, Theatre History Commons