Performance Studies Reader

The Performance Studies Reader is a lively and much-needed anthology of critical writings on the burgeoning discipline of performance studies. It provides an overview of the full range of performance theory for undergraduates at all levels, and beginning graduate students in performance studies, theatre, performing arts and cultural studies. The collection is designed as a companion to Richard Schechner's popular Performance Studies: an Introduction (Routledge, 2002), but is also ideal as a stand-alone text. Henry Bial collects together key critical pieces from the field, referred to as 'suggested readings' in Performance Studies: an Introduction. He also broadens the discussion with additional selections. The structure and themes of the Reader closely follow those of Schechner's companion textbook. The articles in each section focus particularly on three primary areas in performance studies, theatre, anthropology and sociology/cultural studiesFollowing on from the highly successful first anthology of critical and theoretical writings on performance studies, this is an updated and significantly expanded second edition which brings the anthology bang up to date with current debate. The new edition contains expanded introductory essays and eight entirely new pieces, and is cross-referenced with Richard Schechner's second edition of "Performance Studies: an Introduction." The two volumes combine perfectly to offer a unique and complete teaching resource. This important collection is also widely used by students and scholars around the world as a stand-alone text, offering a stimulating introduction to the crucial debates of performance studies. Collecting together key critical pieces, the "Reader" provides an overview of the full range of performance theory for undergraduates at all levels, and beginning graduate students in performance studies, theatre, performing arts and cultural studies.