Scenarchitecture: a methodology for investigating the role of Genius Loci in the reading, understanding and interpretation of architecture and heritage

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Moneta, A. ORCID: 0000-0002-9125-2806, 2023. Scenarchitecture: a methodology for investigating the role of Genius Loci in the reading, understanding and interpretation of architecture and heritage. In: E. Pirovolakis, M. Mikedaki and P.B. Cruz, eds., Performing space. Athens, Greece: Nissos, pp. 141-170. ISBN 9789605892005

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Abstract

The essay focuses upon the process of reading, understanding, and interpreting the inner character (Genius Loci) and performative attributes of architecture, through the modality of site-specific performance. It explores Scenarchitecture, the author’s methodology, which utilises theatre form as a medium to blend historical research with the perceptual, emotional response to a given site, during the live experience of architectural places and their contexts in nature. Combining local history with a physical, dialectical relation with Genius Loci, the method can reveal the multiple strata of intangible cultural heritage to a broader audience through sited performances deeply rooted in the place. The final goal is to foster place awareness and community engagement, but also to help stakeholders and urban developers to create design interventions that are respectful of places. The methodology has developed through repeated testing in different contexts: in Research-led teaching at University of Rome La Sapienza and Nottingham Trent University, in professional practice for performance and architectural design in association with Archabout, and in live events in marketing and communication with Smart Jokes. Through a series of case studies in Italy and UK, the essay illustrates Moneta’s site-specific, trans-disciplinary methodology for investigating the relation between architecture, theatre and heritage. Feedback collected during case studies in the form of live events and performances, evidenced the engagement of the audience with the themes and methods of the research; furthermore, all sited activities enhanced visitors’ experience and the understanding of sited tangible and intangible cultural heritage in Italy and UK.

Item Type:

Chapter in book

Creators:

Moneta, A.

Publisher:

Nissos

Place of Publication:

Athens, Greece

Date:

1 July 2023

ISBN:

9789605892005