Exploring the Role of Disruptive Periods in the Digital Transformation of Theatre and Performing Arts

This article investigates the impacts of the disruptive periods of uncertainty and great change caused by processes such as the 2020 global Covid-19 pandemic, on the performing arts industry, with a specific focus on theatre. We use a combination of systematic literature review and semistructured interviews with professionals in the field to explore how the shift to digital platforms has reshaped production, distribution, and consumption within this traditionally live interaction-dependent sector. This article identifies key transformations in the sociotechnical regime of the performing arts, highlighting the accelerated integration of digital technologies and the consequent shifts in audience engagement and economic models. Theoretical contributions of this article include insights into the resilience and adaptability of creative industries in the face of regulatory and environmental changes, while practical implications point to the need for innovative economic strategies and policy support to bridge the digital divide.