Contemporary Black Theatre and Performance: Acts of Rebellion, Activism, and Solidarity

Contemporary Black Theatre and Performance explores the relationship between performance, identity, intersectionality, and activism in North America and beyond, featuring contributions from scholars, artists, and activists. It addresses topics such as antiracist pedagogy, Black queer identity formation, digital blackface, and Black women's subversive practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Contemporary Black Theatre and Performance delves into the intricate interplay between performance, identity, intersectionality, and activism, shedding light on the dynamic landscape of Black performance in North America and beyond. This comprehensive volume features contributions from esteemed scholars, artists, and activists who explore the diverse and evolving forms of Black performance in the 21st century, employing performance-based methodologies and queer and black feminist theories.

Within its pages, readers will find a rich tapestry of topics, including antiracist pedagogy, Black queer identity formation in Black playwriting, digital blackface, and the subversive practices of Black women within contemporary popular culture. The book encompasses a comprehensive dramatic analysis of notable works such as Lynn Nottage's Sweat, Tarell Alvin McCraney's Choir Boy, and the acts of resistance witnessed during the Black Lives Matter summer 2020 highway protests.

To enrich the reader's experience, a series of engaging conversations with artists and scholars are interwoven throughout the book's three sections. These conversations delve into the creative processes, social implications, and historical contexts of Black performance, providing a deeper understanding of the profound impact it has on cultural, social, and political struggles.

Contributors to Contemporary Black Theatre and Performance hail from various disciplines, bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. Their insights and analyses offer a multi-dimensional perspective on the field, challenging traditional narratives and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of Black identity and representation.

This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, artists, activists, and anyone interested in exploring the power of performance to shape narratives, challenge systems of power, and promote social change. It encourages readers to engage with the rich tapestry of Black performance and to consider its potential as a catalyst for transformative dialogue and action.

In conclusion, Contemporary Black Theatre and Performance is a groundbreaking work that illuminates the profound impact of Black performance on cultural, social, and political landscapes. Through its comprehensive analysis, engaging conversations, and interdisciplinary approach, it offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the ways in which Black artists, activists, and pedagogues wield acts of rebellion, activism, and solidarity to precipitate change. By exploring the intersections of identity, intersectionality, and activism, this book contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the importance of representation, diversity, and social justice in the arts and society.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 138 x 217 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350252912