Designed for students and teachers alike, this Introduction provides a detailed guide for historical research in the performing arts. The book examines basic procedures and problems in both documentary scholarship and cultural history. A practical guide, this study demonstrates how to construct historical events - large and small - and place them in relation to the political, social, and economic conditions, the artistic traditions, audience responses and values, and historical periods.Includes detailed case studies on Shakespearean theatre and avant garde theatreExamines historical conditions and problems from Greek classical performance to modern London theatreCovers not only basic methods of archival research and analysis but also the complex procedures of contemporary scholarship in history and historiography todayThe historical methods also serve the related fields of dance studies, opera history, musicology, art history, and literary historyThis series is designed to introduce students to key topics and authors. Accessible and lively, these introductions will also appeal to readers who want to broaden their understanding of the books and authors they enjoy.Ideal for students, teachers and lecturersConcise, yet packed with essential informationKey suggestions for further reading