Theatrical Antirealism

Theatrical antirealism is a philosophy in theater that emphasizes the use of deliberate theatrical techniques—such as exaggerated acting, stylized sets, and symbolic language—to remind audiences they are watching a crafted performance. Unlike approaches that aim for realistic, lifelike representations, theatrical antirealism embraces artifice as a meaningful part of the experience, encouraging viewers to think critically about the themes and messages rather than accepting the presentation as mere reality. It highlights the constructed nature of theater, fostering a heightened awareness of its artistic and imaginative qualities.