Dictionary of Theatre Anthropology - Softcover

The second and fully revised edition of "A Dictionary of Theatre Anthropology" that subtly juxtaposes the visual demonstrations of the performer's craft, from a wealth of Oriental and Occidental sources. Whereas most Western research is concerned with naturalism and psychological realism in acting, the Dictionary focuses on the performer's arduous and eclectic craft. More than just a dictionary, however, this is a handbook for theatre practitioners and a guide for students and scholars of transcultural performance. The Dictionary: aims to expand our knowledge of the possibilities of the scenic body, and of the spectator's response to the dynamics of performance; includes practical sections on balance, oppposition and montage, among other techniques; discusses isssues including The Text and the Stage, The Dilated Body, and Energetic Language; provides over 600 illustrated examples of the performer's craft, in black and white and colour. The visual essay of photographs, drawings and diagrams which runs parallel to the text is skilfully constructed to complement the textual argument. The result is not only a unique and lavishly illustrated sourcebook on Western and non-Western theatre but an inspiring tribute to the secret art of the performer.