City as Theatre: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

How does Jeddah use theatre? How does understanding this help understand Jeddah today? How can the understanding of Jeddah city’s theatricality help uncover it’s new identity? How does Jeddah city display itself through the spectacle that is city as theatre? This dissertation is a study of the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as a Theatre. The methodology used in analysing the city stems from understanding the working aspects of theatres, spectacles, and performances, and how that may be found in a city. This theatrical analysis approach to understanding the city reveals different roles that are of value in shaping a well connected city with its people and livelihood. The research looks at the beginnings of the city, its growth, and reflects on the current situation in city development.