Amsterdam University Press The Problem of Theatrical Autonomy: Analysing Theatre as a Social Practice

Theatre studies, performance studies, autonomy, theatre sociology, value, theatre policy Review [This book] opens up an interesting and necessary debate in theatre analysis. It is arguable whether theatrical autonomy, being a concept that is almost impossible to define without a certain amount of reductionism, can be the key concept in further research on theatre sociology, but precisely the research of concrete cases will answer this question. It is therefore a valuable book that will help any researcher or student rethink his or her methodological approach. - Ga¿per Troha, Amfiteater, Journal of Performing Arts Theory Vol. 5, no. 2 From the Inside Flap As any devoted theatregoer will attest, watching a performance is a unique experience, as the social setting, rules, and standards of theatre often combine to create a feeling of liberation from the everyday world. This book explores the phenomenon of theatre as simultaneously distinct from and yet connected to society as a whole. Combining theoretical reflections with materials from European case studies, the authors offer intriguing new methods for the sociological study of theatre while contributing equally to theatre and performance studies. From the Back Cover As any devoted theatregoer will attest, watching a performance is a unique experience, as the social setting, rules, and standards of theatre often combine to create a feeling of liberation from the everyday world. This book explores the phenomenon of theatre as simultaneously distinct from and yet connected to society as a whole. Combining theoretical reflections with materials from European case studies, the authors offer intriguing new methods for the sociological study of theatre while contributing equally to theatre and performance studies. About the Author Quirijn Lennert van den Hoogen is university lecturer of arts sociology and arts policy at the University of Groningen.|Louise Ejgod Hansen holds a research position at the theatre section of Aarhus University.|Joshua Edelman worked as a research fellow at the Royal Central School of Speech & Drama, University of London.