Identity, Culture, and the Science Performance, Volume 1: From the Lab to the Streets

Identity, Culture, and the Science Performance, Volume 1: From the Lab to the Streets explores the sociocultural work of science-oriented performance, examining public-facing science events that operate within and for specialist and non-specialist populations. It offers a critique of racist, ableist, sexist, and heteronormative ideologies and highlights science performances that challenge and redress these ideologies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Identity, Culture, and the Science Performance, Volume 1: From the Lab to the Streets is a groundbreaking exploration of the diverse sociocultural work of science-oriented performance. This dynamic volume comprises scholarly essays, engaging interviews with scientists and artists, and innovative creative entries, all aimed at examining explicitly public-facing science performances that cater to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

The book's chapters delve into the theatrical and ethical dimensions of live science events, re-enact historical portrayals of scientific expertise, and showcase the pedagogical and activist potential of performing science in community settings. Alongside the scholarly chapters, From the Lab to the Streets features captivating creative works by contemporary science-integrative artists, as well as insightful interviews with renowned science communicators Sahana Srinivasan (host of Netflix's Brainchild) and Raven Baxter (known as "Raven the Science Maven"). Additionally, the book features artists from performance ensembles such as The Olimpias and Superhero Clubhouse, contributing their unique perspectives to the discourse.

In its examination of the science performance as a vital but flawed method of public engagement, the book offers a critical critique of the racist, ableist, sexist, and heteronormative ideologies that have permeated the history of science. It also highlights science performances that challenge and redress these ideologies, fostering a more inclusive and equitable understanding of scientific knowledge and its applications.

Co-published with its complementary volume, From the Curious to the Quantum, Identity, Culture, and the Science Performance, Volume 1: From the Lab to the Streets documents the intricate ways in which identity categories and cultural constructs are formed and reformed through the lens of science performances. This comprehensive exploration provides valuable insights into the multifaceted relationship between science, culture, and society, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the role of performance in shaping our understanding of the world.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350234116