Travel and tourism products and services (3)
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1.
Explain how a director might use product knowledge and differentiation to create a successful production of a play written by a playwright whose work is not widely known or understood by a contemporary audience. Consider the challenges involved and the strategies that could be employed to overcome them.
Producing a play by a relatively unknown playwright presents significant challenges. The director must act as a bridge between the historical context of the play and the contemporary audience, ensuring the work is accessible and engaging. This requires a careful blend of product knowledge and strategic differentiation.
Challenges:
- Lack of Familiarity: The audience may not be familiar with the playwright's style, the historical context of the play, or the cultural references embedded within the text.
- Potential for Misinterpretation: Without sufficient context, the play's themes and messages may be misunderstood or misinterpreted.
- Difficulty in Finding Suitable Casting: Actors may be unfamiliar with the playwright's language or style, making it difficult to find performers who can convincingly portray the characters.
Strategies:
- Contextualisation & Exposition: The director can incorporate elements into the production that provide context for the audience. This might include:
- Pre-show notes or program inserts explaining the historical context and the playwright's life.
- Minimalist staging that avoids anachronisms and allows the audience to focus on the story.
- Narrative elements (e.g., a narrator or flashbacks) to provide exposition.
- Stylistic Differentiation: The director can use stylistic choices to make the play more accessible to a contemporary audience. This might involve:
- Modernising the language (while retaining the playwright's voice).
- Using contemporary music or visual projections to enhance the atmosphere.
- Employing a non-traditional staging approach to create a more dynamic and engaging visual experience.
- Collaboration & Research: The director should collaborate with researchers, historians, and other experts to ensure the production is accurate and respectful of the playwright's work. This also includes engaging with the community to understand how the play's themes resonate with contemporary audiences.
Example: Holding workshops or Q&A sessions with the audience after performances to discuss the play's themes and address any questions or concerns.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a production that is both faithful to the playwright's vision and relevant to the contemporary audience. By carefully considering product knowledge and employing thoughtful differentiation, a director can successfully bring a lesser-known play to life.
2.
Question 3: Compare and contrast the services offered by different providers of car hire (e.g., major international companies vs. local rental agencies). Consider factors such as price, vehicle availability, customer service, and insurance options. How might these differences influence a traveller's choice of car hire provider?
Answer: Car hire providers vary significantly, offering different levels of service and pricing. Major international companies (e.g., Avis, Hertz, Enterprise) typically have a wider network of locations, a larger fleet of vehicles, and established customer service systems. Prices are often competitive, but can be higher due to brand recognition and overhead costs. Insurance options are usually comprehensive, but may be expensive.
Local rental agencies often offer lower prices, particularly in specific regions. However, their fleet may be smaller, and vehicle availability can be limited. Customer service may be less consistent, and insurance options might be less comprehensive or more restrictive. The vehicles may also be older or in poorer condition.
Price is a major factor influencing choice. Travellers on a budget may opt for a local agency, while those prioritizing reliability and convenience might choose a major international company. Vehicle availability is crucial, especially during peak seasons. Major companies generally have better availability. Customer service is important for resolving issues during the rental period. International companies often have dedicated customer support teams. Insurance options should be carefully considered, especially for travellers who require comprehensive coverage.
Ultimately, the choice of car hire provider depends on the traveller's individual needs and priorities. A traveller prioritizing budget might choose a local agency, while someone prioritizing reliability and comprehensive insurance might opt for a major international company. Thorough research and comparison of different providers are essential to make an informed decision.
3.
Consider the transport industry. Compare and contrast two different modes of transport commonly used by tourists in a city (e.g., buses, taxis, trams, metro). Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each from the perspective of a tourist, considering factors such as cost, convenience, and accessibility.
Comparing and Contrasting Tourist Transport Modes: Buses vs. Taxis
Tourists often rely on various modes of transport to navigate a city. Buses and taxis are two commonly used options, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Buses:
- Advantages: Cost-effective compared to taxis. Extensive network covering many parts of the city. Accessibility can be good, with many buses equipped for wheelchairs and strollers. Environmental benefits compared to individual taxis.
- Disadvantages: Can be slow due to traffic congestion. Less convenient than taxis, requiring adherence to fixed routes and timetables. Potential for overcrowding during peak hours. May not be suitable for late-night travel when services are reduced.
Taxis:
- Advantages: Convenience – readily available and can be hailed or booked in advance. Direct routes – can take tourists directly to their destination. Comfortable – offer a private and comfortable ride. Available 24/7.
- Disadvantages: Expensive – significantly more costly than buses. Susceptible to traffic congestion, potentially leading to delays. Potential for scams (e.g., drivers taking longer routes). Accessibility can be limited for passengers with mobility issues, although accessible taxis are becoming more common.
Summary Table:
Mode | Cost | Convenience | Accessibility |
Bus | Low | Moderate | Good |
Taxi | High | High | Limited |