paul rae : presencing


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

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