Multimedia as Kinetic Scenography and an Experimental Form of Narrative in Contemporary Non-Verbal Theatre for Toddlers

Abstract

This article aims to contribute to the broader debate on the role of multimedia in contemporary theatre, particularly in the context of an interactive and inclusive approach to the youngest audiences. The production BatoLaterna (BabyLaterna), the first ever stage project by the National Theatre Prague – Laterna magika for children aged 6 months to 3 years, directed by the author of the study Hana Strejčková, is a unique example of contemporary theatre for toddlers that experiments with the language of multimedia. This 2022 production develops the traditional principles of Laterna magika, while innovatively transforming them for the needs of early childhood, taking into account its specific characteristics. From a certain point of view, it also blurs the boundaries between live activation – interactive theatre, kinetic scenography and multimedia kinetic composition. Multimedia can thus be seen as a narrative-visual language of non-verbal theatre for toddlers.