Performance and Politics in a Digital Populist Age: Imagining Alternatives

This book explores the role of performance in global politics in the age of populism and digital media, arguing that post-truth performances are essential for reinvigorating democracy. It draws on applied theatre practices to show how performance can facilitate cooperative and collaborative encounters across difference, and supports effective responses to digital populism. The analysis engages with performative aspects of populist political movements in the US and UK, highlighting the importance of interpersonal engagement, creative embodiment, and interactive affect in democratic engagement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the era of populism and the digital mediatization of political interactions, this book takes a fresh look at the role of performance in global politics. As political communications shift online, the significance of 'post-truth performances' in democratic processes becomes increasingly apparent. Therefore, it is crucial to reevaluate the political power of performance and theatricality to revitalize democracy in the 21st century.

Drawing on applied theatre practices, this book demonstrates that performance is inherently concerned with collaborative and cooperative encounters across differences. It suggests that performance can play a vital role in responding to digital populism effectively. The analysis explores the performative aspects of populist political movements in the United States and the United Kingdom, delving into areas such as interpersonal engagement, creative embodiment, and interactive affect.

By examining these less commonly discussed aspects of performance and theatricality in the context of international relations (IR), the book makes a compelling case for their importance in democratic engagement. It resonates with recent debates surrounding the relevance and treatment of Arts and Performance as IR subjects, methodologies, and practices. This book will appeal to scholars and students of global politics, international relations, performance studies, radical democracy, mass communication, and culture.

In conclusion, this book offers a timely and insightful exploration of the role of performance in global politics, highlighting its potential to foster democratic engagement and respond to the challenges posed by digital populism. By embracing the collaborative and interactive nature of performance, we can revitalize democracy and create a more inclusive and responsive political landscape.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032419589