Abstract:
This article considers the implications of new media performance
and discourse for more conventional aspects of the theatrical event.
Taking the resilient appeal of theatrical presence as its starting
point, a selection of performances and perceptions are re-addressed in
light of recent theoretical provocations concerning space, virtuality
and presence itself. The objects and events under consideration range
from postcards of theatres and advertisements for video gaming consoles
to the performance work of Xavier le Roy, and Brian Friel's play Faith Healer.
The article closes by addressing the challenges of and to new media
performance practice and discourse more directly, and with some brief
contextualising remarks about the rest of the journal.
Paul Rae is studying for a PhD in performance at the
University of Middlesex. His research interests are performance theory
and aesthetics, cosmopolitanism, and contemporary theatre in Southeast
Asia.
Contact: paulrae77@hotmail.com