Glossary

1.1 Foundations of Theatre and Performance Studies

9 min read•july 29, 2024

Theatre and examine how humans express themselves through live action. These fields explore the history, theory, and practice of theatrical arts, analyzing their cultural significance and social impact.

From ancient Greek tragedies to modern experimental works, theatre reflects and shapes society. By studying its evolution, we gain insights into how different cultures have used performance to entertain, educate, and challenge social norms throughout history.

Theatre and Performance Studies

Academic Disciplines Examining Theatre and Performance

Top images from around the web for Academic Disciplines Examining Theatre and Performance

  • Category:Academic disciplines - Wikimedia Commons View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Interdisciplinarity in Primary and Secondary School: Issues and Perspectives View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Category:Academic disciplines - Wikimedia Commons View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Academic Disciplines Examining Theatre and Performance

  • Category:Academic disciplines - Wikimedia Commons View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Interdisciplinarity in Primary and Secondary School: Issues and Perspectives View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Category:Academic disciplines - Wikimedia Commons View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3
  • is an academic discipline that examines the history, theory, and practice of theatre and dramatic arts
    • Encompasses the study of playwriting, acting, directing, design, and performance in various cultural and historical contexts
    • Investigates the artistic, technical, and interpretive aspects of theatrical production and reception
    • Analyzes the social, political, and cultural significance of theatre as a medium of human expression and communication
  • Performance studies is an interdisciplinary field that investigates the nature of performance in a broad sense, including not only theatre but also ritual, dance, music, sports, politics, and everyday life
    • Explores how performances construct and communicate meaning, identity, and power relations across various cultural and social contexts
    • Examines the performative dimensions of human behavior and interaction, from individual gestures to collective rituals and public events
    • Draws on theories and methods from anthropology, sociology, psychology, and to analyze the embodied, experiential, and transformative aspects of performance

Methodologies and Approaches in Theatre and Performance Studies

  • Both theatre and performance studies draw on various methodologies from the humanities and social sciences to examine the social, political, and aesthetic dimensions of performance
    • : close reading and interpretation of dramatic texts, considering their structure, language, themes, and characters
    • : research and analysis of primary sources (such as scripts, reviews, and archival materials) to reconstruct and interpret the history of theatrical productions and practices
    • : participant observation and interviews to study the cultural and social contexts of performance, including the experiences and perspectives of performers, audiences, and communities
    • Cultural studies: critical analysis of the ideological and discursive dimensions of performance, examining how it reflects and shapes cultural values, identities, and power relations
  • Theatre and performance studies also engage with interdisciplinary approaches, such as:
    • : analysis of the signs and codes of performance, including the use of space, movement, costume, and lighting to convey meaning
    • Gender and queer studies: examination of how performance constructs and challenges gender norms and sexual identities
    • : investigation of how performance has been used to resist, subvert, or negotiate colonial and neocolonial power structures
    • : exploration of the psychological and neurological processes involved in performing and spectating, such as empathy, emotion, and perception

Key Components of Theatrical Performance

Elements of Theatrical Performance

  • Theatrical performances typically involve live actors presenting a story or action before an audience in a shared physical space
    • Actors use dialogue, movement, and gestures to convey meaning and embody characters or roles
    • The presence of a live audience creates a dynamic and interactive relationship between performers and spectators, shaping the energy and reception of the performance
    • The shared physical space (such as a theatre, auditorium, or public square) provides a specific context and atmosphere for the performance, influencing its meaning and impact
  • Performances are usually structured around a script or a predetermined set of actions
    • Scripts may be based on written texts (such as plays, adaptations, or original works), oral traditions (such as folklore, myths, or improvised narratives), or devised through collaborative creation processes
    • The structure of the performance may follow a linear narrative, a non-linear or fragmented form, or an open-ended or interactive format, depending on the artistic and communicative goals of the production
  • Theatrical productions often incorporate various design elements to create a specific atmosphere and support the storytelling
    • Sets: the physical environment of the performance, including scenery, props, and spatial arrangement, which can establish location, time period, and mood
    • Costumes: the clothing and accessories worn by the actors, which can indicate character, status, and cultural context
    • Lighting: the use of illumination and shadows to create visual effects, focus attention, and convey emotional or psychological states
    • Sound: the use of music, sound effects, and vocal amplification to create aural landscapes, underscore action, and evoke sensory responses

Cultural and Historical Diversity of Theatrical Traditions

  • Different cultures and time periods have developed distinct performance traditions, each with its own conventions, aesthetics, and social functions
    • : a form of ancient Greek theatre that featured mythological or heroic stories, exploring themes of fate, morality, and the relationship between humans and gods (, )
    • : a highly stylized and symbolic form of Japanese theatre that combines music, dance, and poetic language to evoke spiritual and emotional states (, )
    • : a classical Indian dance-drama that uses elaborate makeup, costumes, and gestures to enact Hindu epics and mythology (, )
    • : a diverse range of theatrical practices that reflect the experiences, struggles, and cultural expressions of African-American communities (, )
  • These traditions have evolved over time, influenced by social, political, and cultural factors, such as:
    • Religious beliefs and practices: many theatrical traditions have emerged from ritual and spiritual contexts, such as ancient Greek festivals honoring Dionysus or medieval European mystery plays depicting biblical stories
    • Political and economic structures: the patronage and censorship of theatre by ruling classes, governments, or religious authorities have shaped the content and form of performances in different historical periods (, )
    • Cross-cultural encounters and influences: the exchange and adaptation of theatrical practices across geographical and cultural boundaries have led to hybrid and syncretic forms of performance (, )

Theatre History's Significance

Understanding the Origins and Evolution of Theatrical Forms

  • Studying theatre history helps practitioners understand the origins and evolution of theatrical forms, conventions, and techniques
    • Tracing the development of dramatic genres, such as , , and , reveals how they have adapted to changing social and cultural contexts over time
    • Examining the history of acting styles, from the stylized gestures of ancient Greek theatre to the psychological realism of modern acting, provides insights into the ways performers have sought to embody and communicate human experience
    • Analyzing the evolution of stagecraft and technology, from the use of natural lighting and acoustics in ancient amphitheaters to the integration of digital media in contemporary productions, highlights how theatre has responded to and shaped technological innovations
  • Knowledge of theatre history provides a foundation for innovation and experimentation in contemporary practice
    • Understanding the conventions and limitations of past theatrical forms can inspire practitioners to challenge and subvert them, creating new modes of expression and engagement
    • Drawing on the diverse techniques and aesthetics of global performance traditions can enrich contemporary theatre-making, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration
    • Recognizing the historical contingency and variability of theatrical practices can encourage practitioners to adapt and reinvent them in response to changing social and cultural contexts

Situating Theatre within Cultural and Artistic Contexts

  • Knowledge of theatre history enables practitioners to situate their work within a broader cultural and artistic context
    • Identifying the social and political issues that have preoccupied theatre-makers in different periods and cultures can help contemporary practitioners engage with the pressing concerns of their own time and place
    • Tracing the influence of other art forms, such as literature, music, and visual arts, on the development of theatre can inspire interdisciplinary collaborations and experimental approaches in contemporary practice
    • Recognizing the role of theatre in shaping cultural identities and communities can help practitioners create work that resonates with and empowers diverse audiences
  • Examining the social and political dimensions of theatre history can help contemporary practitioners develop a critical awareness of the role of theatre in shaping public discourse and effecting social change
    • Studying the ways in which theatre has been used as a tool for propaganda, resistance, or social critique in different historical contexts can inform the strategies and responsibilities of contemporary theatre-makers
    • Analyzing the representation of marginalized groups and voices in the history of theatre can help practitioners challenge and redress patterns of exclusion and stereotyping in contemporary casting and storytelling practices
    • Investigating the historical relationships between theatre and movements for social justice, such as the civil rights movement or feminist activism, can inspire practitioners to use their art as a platform for advocacy and empowerment

Theatre and Society's Relationship

Theatre as a Reflection of Social and Cultural Values

  • Theatre has often served as a reflection of the social, political, and cultural values of the societies in which it is produced
    • The themes, characters, and conflicts portrayed on stage can offer insights into the concerns, beliefs, and aspirations of different communities and eras
    • The representation of gender roles, family structures, and social hierarchies in theatrical works can reveal the dominant norms and expectations of a given society
    • The use of language, dialect, and idiom in dramatic texts can reflect the linguistic and cultural diversity of a particular time and place
  • The study of theatre history can reveal how different societies have used performance to negotiate issues of class, gender, race, and sexuality
    • The depiction of working-class characters and social inequalities in plays like A Doll's House (Henrik Ibsen) or Death of a Salesman (Arthur Miller) can expose the tensions and contradictions of capitalist societies
    • The subversive portrayal of gender and sexual identities in works like M. Butterfly (David Henry Hwang) or Hedwig and the Angry Inch (John Cameron Mitchell) can challenge heteronormative assumptions and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights
    • The exploration of racial and ethnic identities in plays like A Raisin in the Sun (Lorraine Hansberry) or Fences (August Wilson) can confront the legacies of racism and discrimination in American society

Theatre as a Tool for Social Critique and Political Activism

  • Theatre has also functioned as a tool for social critique and political activism, using the stage to challenge dominant ideologies, expose injustices, and advocate for change
    • Political theatre, such as the agitprop performances of the Russian Revolution or the guerrilla theatre of the 1960s, has used satire, parody, and direct address to confront audiences with urgent social and political issues
    • Documentary theatre, such as The Laramie Project (Moisés Kaufman) or The Exonerated (Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen), has used interviews, court transcripts, and other real-life sources to shed light on miscarriages of justice and human rights abuses
    • Feminist theatre, such as the works of Caryl Churchill or the Guerrilla Girls, has used performance to critique patriarchal oppression, celebrate women's experiences, and imagine alternative social structures
  • The relationship between theatre and society is reciprocal, with theatrical performances not only responding to but also shaping social norms, identities, and power structures
    • The staging of plays that challenge dominant cultural narratives or give voice to marginalized perspectives can contribute to broader social movements and shifts in public opinion
    • The participation of diverse communities in the creation and reception of theatre can foster a sense of collective identity, empowerment, and social solidarity
    • The physical gathering of audiences in a shared space can create opportunities for dialogue, debate, and civic engagement, extending the impact of theatre beyond the walls of the auditorium

Censorship, Patronage, and State Support in Theatre History

  • Censorship, patronage, and state support have played significant roles in the history of theatre, influencing the content, form, and reception of theatrical performances in different contexts
    • Government censorship, such as the Lord Chamberlain's Office in Britain or the Hays Code in Hollywood, has restricted the representation of controversial topics, such as sex, violence, or political dissent, in theatrical works
    • Religious authorities, such as the Catholic Church or Islamic clerics, have also exercised censorship over theatrical performances, banning or condemning works that were deemed blasphemous, immoral, or subversive
    • Patronage by wealthy individuals, aristocratic families, or corporate sponsors has shaped the production and reception of theatre, privileging certain artistic styles, genres, or ideological perspectives over others
  • The study of theatre history can reveal how different societies have negotiated the tensions between artistic freedom, social control, and economic support in the realm of performance
    • The flourishing of Spanish Golden Age theatre under the patronage of the Habsburg court, or the censorship of Soviet theatre under Stalinist rule, illustrate the complex relationships between art, power, and ideology in different historical contexts
    • The emergence of alternative or independent theatre movements, such as Off-Off-Broadway in the 1960s or the fringe theatre in the UK, represents attempts to resist or bypass the constraints of mainstream cultural institutions and create spaces for artistic experimentation and social critique
    • The debates around public funding for the arts, such as the controversies surrounding the National Endowment for the Arts in the US or the Arts Council in the UK, reflect ongoing tensions between the autonomy of cultural production and the accountability of state support in democratic societies

Key Terms to Review (31)

A Raisin in the Sun: A Raisin in the Sun is a play by Lorraine Hansberry that debuted on Broadway in 1959, focusing on the struggles of a working-class African American family in Chicago as they aspire to improve their living conditions. This groundbreaking work explores themes of racial discrimination, identity, and the pursuit of dreams, making significant contributions to the foundations of American theatre and the representation of African American experiences on stage.
African-american theatre: African-American theatre refers to theatrical works created by, for, and about African Americans, which explore the cultural, social, and political experiences of the African American community. This form of theatre has roots in African traditions and encompasses a range of styles and genres, including drama, comedy, musical theatre, and more, reflecting the diverse narratives and histories of black lives in America.
City dionysia: The city dionysia was a major festival in ancient Athens held in honor of the god Dionysus, celebrated with dramatic competitions, religious rituals, and large public gatherings. This festival marked a significant cultural event where playwrights presented their works, ultimately shaping the development of Greek theatre and performance traditions.
Cognitive science: Cognitive science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the mind and its processes, encompassing various domains such as psychology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, linguistics, anthropology, and philosophy. It aims to understand how people think, learn, and perceive the world, making connections to performance and how audiences engage with theatrical productions.
Comedy: Comedy is a genre of theatrical performance that aims to entertain and amuse the audience, often through humor, exaggerated characters, and absurd situations. It serves not only as entertainment but also as a reflection of social norms and critiques of society, using wit and irony to explore human behavior.
Cultural studies: Cultural studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines cultural phenomena in their social and political contexts, focusing on how culture shapes and is shaped by social identities, power dynamics, and historical events. It encourages critical analysis of cultural texts, including literature, performance, and media, revealing the connections between cultural practices and broader societal issues.
Elizabethan Theatre: Elizabethan theatre refers to the theatrical practices and performances that took place in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, roughly from 1558 to 1603. This period is marked by the flourishing of drama, particularly through the works of playwrights like William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe, and it laid the foundations for modern English theatre by blending classical influences with innovative storytelling and character development.
Ethnography: Ethnography is a qualitative research method used to study cultures and social practices through direct observation and participation. It seeks to understand the lived experiences and meanings that people attach to their activities, often involving immersive fieldwork where the researcher becomes part of the community being studied. This method is particularly relevant in theatre and performance studies, as it helps analyze how cultural performances reflect and shape social identities.
Gender studies: Gender studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the social, cultural, and historical constructs of gender and its impact on individuals and societies. It seeks to understand how gender identities and roles are created, expressed, and enforced, and how these dynamics interact with other categories like race, class, and sexuality.
Greek Tragedy: Greek tragedy is a form of drama that originated in ancient Greece, characterized by serious themes, moral dilemmas, and the downfall of heroic figures. It often explores profound human emotions and the consequences of fate, using a structured format that includes a prologue, episodes, and a chorus. This theatrical style laid the groundwork for future dramatic forms and is essential for understanding the evolution of performance studies and its impact on later theatrical traditions.
Hagoromo: Hagoromo refers to a traditional Japanese performance art that revolves around the celestial robe of a heavenly maiden, often represented in Noh theatre. This term encapsulates themes of beauty, transience, and the ephemeral nature of life, which are significant in Japanese aesthetics and storytelling.
Historiography: Historiography is the study of how history is written and interpreted, focusing on the methodologies, sources, and perspectives that shape historical narratives. It examines the evolution of historical thought and the influence of various cultural, political, and social contexts on the way history is recorded and understood. This term is essential in analyzing how different interpretations of events can lead to varied understandings of theatrical traditions and performances over time.
Indian Kathakali: Indian Kathakali is a traditional form of classical Indian dance-drama that originated in the state of Kerala in the 17th century. Known for its elaborate costumes, detailed facial makeup, and vibrant storytelling, Kathakali combines dance, music, and drama to depict stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Intercultural theatre: Intercultural theatre is a form of performance that blends elements from different cultural traditions to create new theatrical expressions. This approach emphasizes collaboration between diverse cultural backgrounds and seeks to explore themes of identity, globalization, and the interaction of cultures through a shared medium of performance.
Japanese Noh Theatre: Japanese Noh Theatre is a traditional form of Japanese drama that combines music, dance, and acting to convey philosophical themes and stories, often drawing from historical events and folklore. Originating in the 14th century, Noh is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic, slow-paced movement, and the use of masks that represent various characters, enabling profound emotional expression.
Literary analysis: Literary analysis is the examination and interpretation of a literary work's elements, such as theme, character, plot, and style, to understand its meaning and significance. This process involves a critical approach that goes beyond surface-level reading, allowing for deeper insights into the text's context and implications. By analyzing literature, one can explore how various elements contribute to the overall impact of a play or piece of writing.
Mahabharata: The Mahabharata is one of the longest epic poems in the world, originating from ancient India, and it narrates the story of a great war between two factions of a royal family. This epic not only tells the tale of the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas but also encompasses philosophical and devotional themes, exploring concepts of dharma (duty/righteousness) and ethics. Its dramatic elements and rich characters have influenced various forms of theatre and performance across cultures, highlighting its significance in performance studies.
Matsukaze: Matsukaze is a traditional Noh play that explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time through the lens of a story about two ghostly sisters. The play is centered around the lingering emotions and memories of these sisters who were separated from their beloved during his absence. Matsukaze reflects the importance of nature, particularly the imagery of the wind and the pine trees, which symbolize both beauty and sorrow, connecting deeply with the aesthetic principles of Japanese performance.
Medea: Medea is a tragic figure from Greek mythology, primarily known through the ancient Greek play 'Medea' by Euripides. She is depicted as a powerful sorceress who, driven by passion and betrayal, takes drastic actions against her husband Jason after he abandons her for another woman. This character exemplifies themes of vengeance, female empowerment, and the complexities of love and betrayal, influencing later adaptations in Roman tragedy and the foundational concepts of theatre.
Melodrama: Melodrama is a dramatic genre characterized by exaggerated emotions, sensational events, and clear moral distinctions between characters. It often features stock characters and a focus on appeal to the audience's emotions, creating a heightened sense of drama that captivates viewers. This genre connects to the performance styles and structures seen in various theatrical traditions, emphasizing emotional engagement and narrative clarity.
Oedipus Rex: Oedipus Rex, also known as Oedipus the King, is a tragic play written by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles. It explores themes of fate, free will, and the search for truth, centered around the character of Oedipus, who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother. The play is a pivotal example of Greek tragedy, highlighting key elements of performance, characterization, and moral dilemmas that resonate through the ages.
Performance studies: Performance studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the nature of performance in various contexts, focusing on the ways in which performances shape and are shaped by cultural, social, and historical factors. It looks at both traditional forms of theater and everyday performances, exploring how they convey meaning, reflect identity, and influence society.
Postcolonial studies: Postcolonial studies is an academic field that examines the cultural, political, and social impacts of colonialism and imperialism, focusing on the experiences and perspectives of colonized peoples. This area of study highlights how colonial histories continue to influence contemporary societies, particularly in terms of identity, representation, and power dynamics.
Postcolonial theatre: Postcolonial theatre refers to theatrical works that emerge from countries or cultures that have experienced colonial rule, focusing on the complexities of identity, power dynamics, and cultural narratives in a postcolonial context. It explores themes of resistance, reclamation of cultural heritage, and the effects of colonization on personal and collective identities, often challenging dominant narratives and representing marginalized voices.
Ramayana: The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic that narrates the life of Prince Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal companion Hanuman. It explores themes of duty, righteousness, and the struggle between good and evil, influencing various forms of art and performance in the Indian cultural landscape.
Semiotics: Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols, their use and interpretation. It involves understanding how meaning is created and communicated through various forms, such as language, images, gestures, and objects. In the context of performance, semiotics plays a crucial role in analyzing how performances convey meaning to audiences through visual and auditory cues.
Soviet Agitprop Theatre: Soviet agitprop theatre is a form of political theatre that emerged in the Soviet Union during the early 20th century, focused on promoting Communist ideology and inciting social change through performances. This type of theatre aimed to engage the masses, using art as a means to educate and mobilize the public, reflecting the principles of Marxism and Leninism while often incorporating elements of propaganda to achieve its goals.
The Colored Museum: The Colored Museum is a satirical play written by George C. Wolfe that critiques African American culture and identity in the context of American society. Through a series of sketches, it addresses themes of race, representation, and the complexities of Black life, using humor and sharp wit to challenge stereotypes and provoke thought about the African American experience.
Theatre studies: Theatre studies is an academic discipline that explores the history, theory, and practice of theatre and performance. It encompasses the study of various theatrical forms, including drama, dance, and other performance arts, while examining cultural, social, and political contexts that influence these art forms.
Theatrical renaissance: The theatrical renaissance refers to a period of renewed interest and flourishing in the arts, particularly theatre, which occurred in Europe from the late 14th century to the early 17th century. This era was characterized by a revival of classical themes and forms, an emphasis on humanism, and significant advancements in stagecraft and performance techniques, reshaping the landscape of theatrical expression.
Tragedy: Tragedy is a dramatic genre that presents serious themes and often involves the downfall of a protagonist due to a combination of personal flaws and fate. It explores the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas, connecting deeply with audiences by evoking feelings of pity and fear.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Back
Practice QuizGlossary
Practice QuizGlossary
Next guide