Performance at the Urban Periphery: Insights from South India

This edited volume explores the impact of urbanization on performance practices in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, focusing on festivals and performances. It examines how performance responds to its context, the potential for it to be critical of urban development, and the environmental impacts of performance. The book brings together perspectives from the humanities, natural and social sciences, and connects contemporary with heritage forms and human with more-than-human actors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This edited volume delves into the captivating world of performance in its intricate relationship with the rapidly expanding Indian cities, with a special emphasis on festivals and performances in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The editors embark on an insightful exploration, seeking to understand the profound impact of urbanization on performance practices, the consequential effects on their cultural economy, and the ecological implications of performance itself. Furthermore, the project endeavors to examine how performance responds to its specific context, exploring the potential for it to serve as a critical lens against the city's development and its own compromises. By bringing together perspectives from a diverse range of disciplines, including the humanities, natural and social sciences, the book offers a multi-faceted analytical perspective on live performance, seamlessly bridging contemporary practices with heritage forms and human actors with the broader realm of more-than-human entities.

The book is organized into three distinct sections, each themed around heritage, everyday life, and future ecologies. These sections are designed to captivate students and scholars alike, with a particular interest in performance, heritage studies, ecology, and art history. Within these sections, the editors have curated a collection of thought-provoking essays and case studies that shed light on the diverse ways in which performance intersects with urban landscapes, cultural traditions, and environmental concerns.

The first section, titled "Heritage," explores the rich tapestry of cultural heritage that shapes performance in India. The authors examine how historical events, rituals, and traditions have been reimagined and reinterpreted through contemporary performance, highlighting the ways in which heritage serves as a catalyst for artistic innovation and cultural preservation. Through case studies of festivals such as the Kumbh Mela and the Durga Puja, the section demonstrates how performance becomes a means of reconnecting with the past, while also addressing contemporary social and environmental challenges.

The second section, titled "Everyday Life," delves into the dynamic and diverse experiences of performance in urban contexts. The authors examine how performance intersects with everyday life, from the mundane to the extraordinary, and explore the ways in which it contributes to the construction of identities, communities, and social relationships. Through case studies of street performances, theater productions, and community events, the section highlights the power of performance to challenge dominant narratives, promote inclusivity, and foster a sense of belonging.

The third section, titled "Future Ecologies," explores the relationship between performance and the environment. The authors examine how performance can contribute to environmental awareness, sustainability, and conservation efforts, and explore the ways in which it can inspire and empower individuals and communities to take action toward a more sustainable future. Through case studies of eco-theater, green festivals, and community-based environmental initiatives, the section demonstrates how performance can be a powerful tool for promoting environmental stewardship and social justice.

In conclusion, this edited volume offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of performance in the context of expanding Indian cities. Through its multi-faceted approach, the book provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between urbanization, cultural heritage, environmental concerns, and the power of performance to shape and transform society. Whether you are an academic, artist, or simply interested in the world of performance, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of live performance in India.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032270135