Art comes first : how collectivity, values, history, and democratic principles affect the artistic and organisational work in finnish ensemble theatre companies

Abstract

This thesis investigates the daily operations and artistic production processes of four Helsinki-based ensemble theatres companies: KOM-teatteri, Ryhmäteatteri, Teater Viirus, and Q-teatteri. The study focuses on the formation of organisational identity and the impact of history, collectivity, and individual values on operational work, artistic choices, and art. This qualitative case study involved conducting interviews and a group discussion with members of ensemble theatre companies and one freelance director. The study employs a self-ethnographical approach as the author is a member of one of the companies under study. Data collection and analysis were targeted at three levels of organisation: organisational, groups, and individuals.

The theoretical framework is based on arts management and organisation theories with a focus on systems theory, decision-making, identity, clans and networks, organisational identity, and values.

The results indicate that ensemble theatre companies are self-organisations with shared leadership and clan type features. They emphasise collectivity and democratic principles through continuous self-referential process, mutual trust, as well as shared values and responsibility, which generate work motivation and pride in the organisation and its members. All members in the organisation maintain professional and artistic integrity and all organisational operations are in a causal relationship. Organisational identity is formed around the distinctive theatre art and the means and values with which it is created. Self-reference is a means to make artistic choices, monitor wellbeing and recruitment. However, collectivity and friendship can cause excessive cohesion, prevent recruitment of new artists and slow down organisational changes. Ensemble theatre companies are constructed of individuals with personal traits, values and aims, and covert social networks and alliances preventing the full implementation of democratic principles.

This study contributes to the field of arts management, offering discussion about the values inherent in artistic processes in Finnish ensemble theatre companies as well as their complex organisational processes and social relations. This thesis gives a voice to all people working within the arts, regardless of their job title.