Performance Studies

Performance Studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the creation, reception, and impact of live performance. It examines how performances are created and produced, how they are experienced by audiences, and how they reflect and shape culture and society. Performance Studies draws on a variety of disciplines, including theatre, dance, music, film, and cultural studies, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of performance in human life.

Origins and Development

The origins of Performance Studies can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the work of scholars such as Richard Schechner, Victor Turner, and Erving Goffman. These scholars began to explore the ways in which performance is a fundamental aspect of human communication and interaction. In the 1970s and 1980s, Performance Studies emerged as a distinct field of study, with the establishment of academic programs and journals dedicated to the subject.

Key Concepts

Performance Studies is based on a number of key concepts, including:

• Performance: Performance is any form of live action that is created and presented for an audience. This can include theatre, dance, music, film, and other types of live events.
• Audience: The audience is an essential part of performance. Performances are created and performed for an audience, and the audience's response shapes the performance.
• Context: Performances are always created and performed in a specific context. This context includes the physical space, the social and cultural environment, and the time period in which the performance takes place.
• Meaning: Performances can have a variety of meanings, both for the performers and for the audience. Performances can be used to entertain, educate, provoke, or inspire.

Methods of Inquiry

Performance Studies scholars use a variety of methods of inquiry to explore performance, including:

• Ethnography: Ethnography is the study of culture through observation and participation. Performance Studies scholars often use ethnography to study the ways in which performances are created and performed in different cultures.
• Historical analysis: Historical analysis is the study of the past through the examination of written documents, artifacts, and other sources. Performance Studies scholars often use historical analysis to study the ways in which performances have changed over time.
• Textual analysis: Textual analysis is the study of written texts. Performance Studies scholars often use textual analysis to study the ways in which performances are represented in literature, drama, and other forms of writing.
• Performance analysis: Performance analysis is the study of live performances. Performance Studies scholars often use performance analysis to study the ways in which performances are created, performed, and received.

Applications

Performance Studies has a wide range of applications, including:

• Theatre and performance: Performance Studies can be used to improve the creation, production, and reception of theatre and other forms of live performance.
• Education: Performance Studies can be used to teach students about the nature of performance and its role in human culture.
• Research: Performance Studies can be used to conduct research on the history, theory, and practice of performance.
• Cultural criticism: Performance Studies can be used to critique the ways in which performances reflect and shape culture and society.

Benefits of Studying Performance Studies

There are many benefits to studying Performance Studies, including:

• Develops critical thinking skills: Performance Studies requires students to critically analyze performances and their contexts.
• Enhances communication skills: Performance Studies students learn how to communicate effectively through both written and oral presentations.
• Provides a global perspective: Performance Studies exposes students to a variety of cultures and perspectives on performance.
• Introduces students to a variety of career opportunities: Performance Studies graduates can work in a variety of fields, including theatre, education, research, and cultural criticism.

Online Courses for Performance Studies

There are many online courses available that can help you learn about Performance Studies. These courses can provide you with a foundation in the field, or they can help you to develop specific skills and knowledge. Some of the most popular online courses for Performance Studies include:

• Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies: This course is a comprehensive introduction to the field of Performance Studies. It covers the history, theory, and practice of performance, and it provides students with the opportunity to create and perform their own work.
• Create a Brand Awareness Survey in Qualtrics: This course teaches students how to use Qualtrics to create a brand awareness survey. Students will learn how to design a survey, collect data, and analyze the results.
• Finding your voice as a playwright: This course is designed for aspiring playwrights who want to develop their voice and style. Students will learn how to write dialogue, create characters, and develop a plot.

Online courses can be a great way to learn about Performance Studies. They offer flexibility and affordability, and they can be a valuable resource for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the field.

Conclusion

Performance Studies is a vibrant and interdisciplinary field that offers a unique perspective on human culture and society. By studying Performance Studies, you can develop your critical thinking skills, enhance your communication skills, and gain a global perspective. Online courses can be a great way to learn about Performance Studies and develop the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a career in the field.