Participatory Engagement: Embodied Information Behaviors in Performing Arts Programming

Abstract

This study looks at how participatory programming addresses each of the Arts Audience Experience Index intrinsic attributes; knowledge, collective engagement, risk and authenticity, particularly as they relate embodied experience. Semi-structured interviews with a purposive sampling of artists and arts administrators was used to evaluate the relationship between participatory arts, embodiment and audience reach. This research will be a valuable addition to knowledge around increasing audience involvement, widening the impact of the performing arts and creating quality experiences for audiences. It also adds more arts-based dialogue to research about embodied or corporeal knowledge and information behaviors.