The performing arts are collaborative by nature, and more and more groups of performers want to create together, as an ensemble. This book demystifies the collaborative creative process and gives performers and directors practical tools and information to work happily and efficiently in the creation of original work.

Starting with how to come up with an idea for a piece, The Performer's Guide to the Collaborative Process walks readers through various ways to research, generate, shape, and organize material as well as a simple process to keep moving forward with the work. The second half of the book is about working in groups: how to create safety, build trust, share power, make decisions openly, and communicate—including skillful communication, constructive critique, and peaceful conflict resolution.