I’m searching for a new word.
In the world of live events there are a number of words that are used to describe all the different kinds of things that happen. We have performances, talks, convenings, or interactive activities. Each one of these words conjures a particular set of expectations of what a participant will be in for when attending.
So what happens if a particular event has multiple aspects of each of these monikers? What if a performance includes the kind of text you might expect in a talk? What if a talk includes an interactive or performative aspect? What if the entire event is framed more like a convening than a traditional performance?
When I’m asked to come to a venue I have a conversation with the organizer to craft the evening. A 75 minute event could be filled with combined storytelling and tap dancing (talk/performance), a short tap dance lesson (interactive), tap dancing with live musicians (performance), a Q&A (interactive), and an post show informal hang (convening).
So what would you call that?
Do you have ideas? Let me know on Twitter, Facebook, or via email.