Behind the Curtain: An Architectural Mise-en-Scène for Mise-en-Place

Behind the Curtain: An Architectural Mise-en-Scène for Mise-en-Place explores public spaces in the City of Ottawa with an interest in their theatrical potential. Utilizing historical precedents such as Greek and Elizabethan theatre traditions and scenographic devices, identified as frames, layers, point of view, choreography, lighting and viewer-viewed relationships, these “theatrical” civic moments are enhanced by the implementation of architectural elements to bring an awareness of their performative qualities. The urban theatrical devices are further explored in the making of a neighbourhood-scaled intervention. This proposal is supported by a program - a Cultural Centre and Culinary Cooperative - which in itself contributes to interpersonal relationships analogous to the viewer-viewed aspects in theatre. This unique architectural programming also supports a community need - that of a social gathering space for local women from a traditional Italian community who generally remain isolated due to existing social dynamics and traditional gender roles.