Performance Analysis

by Colin Counsell (Editor), Laurie Wolf (Editor)

This revolutionary introductory performance studies coursebook brings together classic texts in critical theory and shows how these texts can be used in the analysis of performance. The editors put their texts to work in examining such key topics * decoding the sign * the politics of performance * the politics of gender and sexual identity * performing ethnicity * the performing body * the space of performance * audience and spectatorship * the borders of performance. Each reading is clearly introduced, making often complex critical texts accessible at an introductory level and immediately applicavble to the field of performance. The ideas explored within these readings are further clarified through innovative, carefully tested exercises and activities.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Yousseif Abdellatif · Rating 3 out of 5]

The vibe was completely off for me at the start of Performance Analysis, like a movie with the volume too low and the subtitles missing. The first thirty pages are all setup and no pulse. Then Colin Counsell puts two rival chefs in the same cramped kitchen during a blackout, and the whole book catches fire. The scene where they silently pass a flashlight back and forth while pretending to ignore each other is gold. The slow start almost cost it a reader. For people who'll hang in there for a payoff. Pass if you quit when a book doesn't hook you fast.

[Yousseif Abdellatif · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick verdict on Performance Analysis: sharp premise, sloppy middle, great last act. What worked: Counsell, Colin sticks the landing. What didn't: about eighty pages of treading water. Recommend for the patient and the stubborn, skip if you quit books easily.