Final answer:
The characteristic that is not a part of the willing suspension of disbelief in theater is critical analysis. Instead, acceptance of the fantastical, emotional engagement, and immersion in the narrative are key elements for audience engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of willing suspension of disbelief is required for an audience to fully engage in a theatrical experience. This involves the audience's ability to accept the fantastical, immerse themselves in the narrative, and connect emotionally with what's happening on stage. However, the characteristic that is not part of the willing suspension of disbelief is critical analysis.
When engaged in a theater experience, the audience predominantly puts aside critical thinking to believe in the reality of the performance and engage with it on an emotional level.
Thus, while acceptance of the fantastical, emotional engagement, and immersion in the narrative are crucial elements of the willing suspension of disbelief, critical analysis tends to stand outside of this immersive experience, because it represents an objective and logical examination that can disrupt the emotional and empathetic flow of the performance.