Dreaming of the Theatre: Naming and Vision

As someone passionate about the arts, the idea of creating a theatre is both an exciting and daunting prospect. The first step in this journey is often choosing the right name for your theatre. Whether you aim to establish a community-focused group or a high-profile venue, selecting a name that captures the essence and values of your theatre is crucial. This article explores the thought process behind naming a theatre and provides some inspiration for those aspiring to carve their mark in the world of performing arts.

Reflections on Names

My Journey with "Sanggar Teater Senyawa"
Located in a Google search, "Sanggar Teater Senyawa" holds a special place in my heart. Established in March 2012, this theatre has been a constant in my life, marking its 9th anniversary this month. Yet, reflecting on naming a theatre, I often wonder if "Senyawa" truly encapsulates the values I aspire to honor in my work. Senyawa translates to 'compound' or 'mixture' in Indonesian, symbolizing the blending of various cultures and artistic forms. However, I cannot deny the charm and uniqueness of this name that Google users and theatre enthusiasts have come to know and love.

Factors in Naming a Theatre

When embarking on the journey to create a theatre, several factors influence the naming process. Location, target audience, and financial considerations all play a role. Here are some examples of how these factors might shape a theatre's name:

Location-Driven Names

If one were to establish a non-profit community theatre in their town, a location-based name could be particularly fitting. For instance:

"Theater in the Ville" - This name suggests a local, community-focused theatre named after a common community name. "Barnbougle Castle Theatre" - An interesting blend of a historic name and a modern purpose, suitable for a venue with a rich history but a new outlook on theatre. "Paper Mill Theatre" - Inspired by previous building uses, this name could evoke past industrial heritage and support a theatre that values transformation and reuse.

Theme-Driven Names

Choosing a name that reflects the mission or value of the theatre can also be compelling. Here are a few examples:

"Shakespeare Players Theatre" - A name that immediately conveys the commitment to classical and timeless works. "Young Players Theatre" - Focused on nurturing young talent, this name could inspire a broad, inclusive audience. "New Works Theatre" - Ideal for a venue that aims to support emerging artists and promote contemporary works.

Exploring Uniqueness and Philosophy

Sometimes, a name can be a powerful statement in itself. Consider the example of the project "Babylon Regained," where the theatre could take on a name and function that reflect a rich philosophical and cultural vision:

"Babylon Regained Theatre" - A name that evokes a historically significant place and a new, revitalized meaning for a theatre. "Barnbougle Castle Theatre" - A name that combines a historic landmark with a theatre, suggesting a place of refuge and transformation.

In this concept, the theatre not only becomes a venue for performances but also a stage for international and early music concerts, embodying a sense of revival and cultural richness.

Conclusion

The name of a theatre holds more than just linguistic significance; it encapsulates the essence, mission, and values of the space. Whether inspired by community, location, or a deeper philosophical idea, the name should resonate with the values and commitments of the theatre, providing a memorable and powerful symbol for those who enter its doors.

As you dream of creating your own theatre, ponder the names that truly represent your vision. Let your passion for the arts guide you in choosing a name that not only sounds good but also conveys the soul of your theatre.