Consumption practices and rituals

Theatre-going as a ritualistic integrative practice

Authors

• Jani Varpa
• Visa Heinonen

Keywords:

consumption, practice theories, ritual, theatre, culture

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine the connection between consumption rituals and practices in the context of a theatre visit. Following an earlier emphasis on understanding mundane consumption, practice theorists are increasingly turning their interest to cultural aspects of consumption. In ritual studies, consumption is often seen as a method of communication within and between groups. We seek to elaborate on the similarities and differences between these two research traditions. In the analysis, we identify three shared elements: artifacts, roles, and proper conduct. Furthermore, consumption rituals have two distinctive elements: magic and audience. By interpreting the data utilising a combined framework, we broaden the understanding of a theatre visit as a ritualised integrative practice and extend the applicability of the two consumption research traditions. In addition, we deepen the understanding of what constitutes a theatre visit. Based on our findings, we also suggest several actions for the theatre institutions and present ideas for future research.