Canadian Performance Documents and Debates: A Sourcebook

Canadian Performance Documents and Debates is a landmark collection that explores the values, debates, and priorities of artists and their audiences from the seventeenth century to the early 1970s, challenging readers to reconsider Canadian theatre and performance history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 664 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2022
Publisher: University of Alberta Press

Canadian Performance Documents and Debates offers a comprehensive exploration of performance activities from the seventeenth century to the early 1970s, delving into profound and perplexing inquiries about Canada as a nation and a concept. This extensive volume gathers play scripts and archival materials to shed light on the values, discussions, and priorities of artists and their audiences over the past 400 years. Through meticulous analyses, the book reevaluates the significance of theatre, dance, opera, circus, and other performance genres and events, challenging readers to reassess Canada's theatrical and performance heritage.

The introduction, penned by Jerry Wasserman, sets the stage for this groundbreaking collection. Contributors, including esteemed scholars and experts, contribute their insights and perspectives, enriching the narrative with diverse voices and expertise.

The first section, titled "Seventeenth-Century Performance," delves into the early stages of Canadian performance history, shedding light on the theatrical practices and cultural expressions of the colonial era. The playscripts and archival materials provide a rich tapestry of performances, showcasing the diversity of theatrical forms and the challenges faced by artists in a new and unfamiliar land.

The second section, titled "Theatre in the 19th and 20th Centuries," explores the evolution of Canadian theatre and performance in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The playscripts and archival materials highlight the growth of professional theatre, the emergence of new performance genres, and the impact of social and political movements on artistic expression. The section also examines the contributions of notable playwrights, directors, and performers, shaping the trajectory of Canadian theatre and performance.

The third section, titled "Performance in the 1970s and Beyond," examines the vibrant and diverse performance landscape of the 1970s and beyond. The playscripts and archival materials showcase the emergence of experimental theatre, interdisciplinary collaborations, and the fusion of traditional and contemporary performance styles. The section also explores the challenges and opportunities faced by artists in a rapidly changing cultural and political landscape.

Throughout the book, the contributors offer insightful analyses that rethink the significance of theatre, dance, opera, circus, and other performance genres and events. They explore the ways in which these performances reflect and shape Canadian society, culture, and identity, challenging traditional narratives and promoting a more inclusive and diverse understanding of Canadian history and culture.

Canadian Performance Documents and Debates is a landmark collection that will appeal to scholars, students, and enthusiasts of theatre, dance, opera, and performance studies. It provides a wealth of information and insights into the past 400 years of Canadian performance history, challenging readers to reimagine the role of performance in shaping Canada's cultural and social landscape.

In conclusion, Canadian Performance Documents and Debates is a indispensable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex history of Canadian theatre and performance. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on the past, challenging readers to reassess the significance of performance in shaping Canada's cultural and social identity. This book is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the enduring legacy of Canadian theatre and performance.

Weight: 1380g
Dimension: 192 x 257 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781772126044