Krzysztof Garbaczewski's theatre in the face of media and new technologies

The aim of this Ph.D dissertation is to present a monograph of Krzysztof Garbaczewski artistic works and determine their role in contemporary Polish theater and societal reception. The thesis also constitutes an attempt to analyze postmedial theater, showcased through Garbaczewski performances. The research encompasses the artist's projects from his debut in 2008 until 2023, including the premiere of the play Germinal. An additional backdrop for the hypotheses presented in the work was provided by an analysis of theatrical tendencies and aesthetics prevailing among other Polish directors. Within the analyzed performances, the focus lies on the comprehensive relationships between the stage, media, actors, and the audience. It is worth emphasizing that the contemporary theater audience assumes an active role as engaged participants in the theatrical event, co-creating their own experiences during the performance. Garbaczewski's creative output becomes a study of key transformations occurring in present-day theater. The influence of his work is particularly evident in its impact on other Polish directors using of VR technology. The paper also examines Polish theater in the context of technological transformations that impact new aesthetics on the stage.