What are some creative problem solving techniques to improve diversity and representation in a production?

2 Brainstorm the possibilities

The next step is to brainstorm the possibilities for improving diversity and representation in your production. This means generating as many ideas as possible, without judging or rejecting them at first. You can use different techniques, such as mind mapping, brainstorming sessions, role playing, or online tools, to stimulate your creativity and explore different perspectives. Some of the possibilities you can consider are: changing the gender, race, ethnicity, age, or ability of some characters; adding or deleting some scenes or dialogues; incorporating elements from different cultures or genres; or collaborating with diverse artists or consultants.

3 Evaluate the options

The third step is to evaluate the options you have brainstormed and select the ones that best suit your production. This means weighing the pros and cons of each option, considering the feasibility, the impact, the relevance, and the authenticity of each option. You can use different techniques, such as SWOT analysis, ranking, voting, or feedback, to compare and contrast the options and make informed decisions. Some of the criteria you can use to evaluate the options are: how well they align with your artistic vision and goals; how well they represent and respect the diversity of your cast, crew, and audience; how well they address and avoid potential controversies or stereotypes; and how well they enhance the quality and originality of your production.

4 Implement the changes

The fourth step is to implement the changes you have selected to improve diversity and representation in your production. This means putting your ideas into action, and making the necessary adjustments to your script, your cast, your crew, your design, your marketing, and your budget. You can use different techniques, such as prototyping, testing, rehearsing, or reviewing, to refine and improve your changes and ensure they work well in practice. Some of the tips you can follow to implement the changes are: communicate clearly and regularly with your team and stakeholders; be flexible and open to feedback and suggestions; be prepared for some challenges and setbacks; and celebrate your achievements and learnings.

5 Monitor the results

The fifth step is to monitor the results of your changes and evaluate their effectiveness in improving diversity and representation in your production. This means collecting and analyzing data, feedback, and observations, from your cast, crew, audience, critics, and peers, and measuring the outcomes and impacts of your changes. You can use different techniques, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, reviews, or analytics, to gather and interpret the data and feedback. Some of the indicators you can use to monitor the results are: the diversity and satisfaction of your cast, crew, and audience; the quality and originality of your production; the relevance and resonance of your story; and the recognition and reputation of your work.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth and final step is to learn and improve from your experience and apply your learnings to your future productions. This means reflecting on your process, your challenges, your successes, and your failures, and identifying the key lessons and insights you have gained from improving diversity and representation in your production. You can use different techniques, such as debriefing, journaling, mentoring, or peer learning, to share and learn from your experience. Some of the questions you can ask yourself are: What worked well and what didn't? What did you enjoy and what did you struggle with? What did you learn and what can you do better next time? By learning and improving, you can continue to grow as a creative problem solver and a diverse and representative theatrical producer.