Centre for Performance Histories and Cultures
The Centre for Performance Histories and Cultures brings together the Department’s dynamic culture of research in a variety of social and historical contexts. Work in this research centre covers a range of national theatre cultures and historical periods. We are committed to the study of performance as a set of social practices, historically and culturally specific.
Theatre history is pursued through a strongly historiographical mode of enquiry, with an equally strong interdisciplinary reach, particularly around visual culture (see Theatre and Visual Culture, and Ruskinian Theatre projects). Researchers in this centre have worked with those in the Centre for Performance Practice to develop a plan of action for developing a hub of expertise in histories and practices of performer training.
The Centre has hosted several major externally funded projects on aspects of British theatre history, including the distinct histories of the devolved nations, and disaporic theatre and performance practices. We respond to national and international challenges to decolonise our research, through the work of Centre members including Daboo and Pearce.
The Centre supports both new and established scholars in developing material for publication, and in the preparation of external funding applications. We have also hosted postgraduate student papers and curated departmental seminars, open to the public.
We meet regularly to share developing project ideas or draft material for publication, allowing group discussion to inform and support both new and established scholars.
