The Palgrave Handbook of Theatre and Race

This book explores the interactions between racial thinking and the stage in the modern and contemporary world, with 25 essays on case studies from various regions. It provides new perspectives on previously neglected areas and frames the history of racial narratives on stage in a global context.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 518 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This groundbreaking book is the first comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between racial thinking and the theatrical landscape in the modern and contemporary world. Comprising a collection of 25 insightful essays, it delves into previously overlooked aspects of racial narratives on stage, offering fresh perspectives on well-studied contexts. Spanning performances from diverse regions such as Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, China, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific islands, this comprehensive anthology contextualizes the history of racial narratives on stage within a global framework. It challenges prevailing notions of race in public discourse and reshapes our understanding of these complex issues.

Introduction:
The study of race and theater has long been intertwined, with plays and performances shaping our understanding of race and society. However, the field has often been limited to specific regions or periods, leaving gaps in our knowledge of how racial thinking has evolved over time. This book aims to fill that gap by providing a comprehensive examination of the interactions between racial thinking and the stage in the modern and contemporary world.

Chapter 1:
In the opening chapter, the book explores the historical roots of racial thinking in theater. It examines how plays and performances have been used to perpetuate stereotypes, reinforce prejudices, and promote discriminatory beliefs. The chapter also highlights the ways in which theater has been used as a platform for resistance and social change, challenging dominant narratives and promoting empathy and understanding.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 examines the ways in which racial thinking manifests itself in contemporary theater. It explores the use of race and ethnicity in casting decisions, the representation of race and culture on stage, and the ways in which theater can contribute to the perpetuation or challenge of racial stereotypes. The chapter also looks at the role of theater in promoting diversity and inclusivity and the ways in which it can challenge dominant narratives and promote social justice.

Chapter 3:
Chapter 3 focuses on specific case studies of racial narratives on stage. It examines performances from a range of regions and periods, including plays by Shakespeare, Toni Morrison, and Amma Asante. The chapter explores the ways in which these performances challenge or perpetuate racial stereotypes, the historical context in which they were produced, and the impact they had on audiences and society.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 examines the role of theater in shaping public discourse on race. It explores how plays and performances can influence public opinion and shape political discourse. The chapter also looks at the ways in which theater can be used to promote empathy and understanding and to challenge dominant narratives and promote social justice.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive exploration of the interactions between racial thinking and the stage in the modern and contemporary world. It offers a wealth of insights and perspectives on the ways in which theater can contribute to or challenge racial stereotypes, promote diversity and inclusivity, and shape public discourse on race. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and theater practitioners alike, and it will undoubtedly inspire further research and discussion in this field.

Weight: 813g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030439590
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021