Chaikin used ensemble casts as a way to explore the relationship between the actor and the outside world. He relied on the performers to interact not as characters in fictional settings, but as real people in real situations. While the Living Theater’s ensemble was very external and audience oriented, Chaikin’s was internal and oriented within the troupe itself. In 1963, Chaikin said “Working together, we teach ourselves.” The ensemble worked in the "poor theater" style. There was no need for sets, costumes, props, or any of the other theatrical elements. There were no moving lights, only enough stationary light to be able tosee. There was no music, instead, the actors would use their voices to create the sound effects. There were hardly any aspects of "rich" theater involved.