The Dialectic of Theatrical Space Between the Imagined and the Embodied in Abbas Al-Tajer's Theatre Performances

Abstract

Abstract:

     The research addresses the dialectic of theatrical space between the imagined and the embodied in Abbas Al-Tajer's theatrical performances. The research problem was identified by the following question: "Is space established in Al-Tajer's work as a reflection of the textual imagined?" The research objective was to identify the reflections of the textual imagined and the mechanisms of operation of the embodied theatrical space in the performances of director Abbas Al-Tajer. The theoretical framework was divided into two sections: the first dealt with space in philosophical and aesthetic thought, and the second section covered the dialectic of constructing theatrical space between the imagined and the embodied, followed by the indicators derived from the theoretical framework. Meanwhile, the procedural framework included the research population consisting of fifteen theatrical performances directed by Abbas Al-Tajer between 1992 and 2025. The research sample was the play "Nay Iraqi," which was selected purposively, in addition to the research methodology, research tool, and sample analysis. Subsequently, the research concluded with a set of results and conclusions, the most important of which are: the theatrical space was formed as a closed semantic structure, where the textual imagined failed to produce an actual alternative, to be absorbed within the embodiment imposed by the performance; and the imagined was realized through the body, turning physical performance into a tool for writing space, as movement, bending, alignment, and ascending produced meanings parallel to the dialogue. Finally, the list of sources and references was presented.