Publication date:
15 October 2016Publisher
Intellect BooksDimensions:
229x178mm7x9"
ISBN-13: 9781783205868
Performance, dramaturgy and scenography are often explored in isolation, but in Theatrical Reality, Campbell Edinborough describes their connectedness in order to investigate how the experience of reality is constructed and understood during performance. Drawing on sociological theory, cognitive psychology and embodiment studies, Edinborough analyses our seemingly paradoxical understanding of theatrical reality, guided by the contexts shaping relationships between performer, spectator and performance space. Through a range of examples from theatre, dance, circus and film, Theatrical Reality examines how the liminal spaces of performance foster specific ways of conceptualising time, place and reality.
'The book asks seemingly simple, but extremely complex questions such as “What do we mean by theatricality?” and “How might we define reality within the context of theatrical performance?” The concept of scenic space is paramount throughout the book. Of course, the complexity of these questions does not mean that they should not be tackled – rather, it is a brave scholar that chooses to address these issues head on. In my judgment, this book does just that with considerable aplomb and, I believe, success.'