Archaeologies of Presence - Tapa dura

‘Comprised of contributions from theorists and practitioners, external case-study analyses and internal reflections, and utilizing theoretical and performative modes of writing, alongside interviews, Archaeologies of Presence is a stimulating, enjoyable, varied and accessible publication... it is a delightfully produced publication to be found on the bookshelves of students, researchers, practitioners, theorists and enthusiasts alike.’– Studies in Theatre and Performance, Hannah Cummings

Archaeologies of Presence is a brilliant exploration of how the performance of presence can be understood through the relationships between performance theory and archaeological thinking. Drawing together carefully commissioned contributions by leading international scholars and artists, this radical new work poses a number of essential questions:

• What are the principle signifiers of theatrical presence?
• How is presence achieved through theatrical performance?
• What makes a memory come alive and live again?
• How is presence connected with identity?
• Is presence synonymous with 'being in the moment'?
• What is the nature of the ‘co-presence’ of audience and performer?
• Where does performance practice end and its documentation begin?

Co-edited by performance specialists Gabriella Giannachi and Nick Kaye, and archaeologist Michael Shanks, Archaeologies of Presence represents an innovative and rewarding feat of interdisciplinary scholarship.