Multimedia Performance

A lively and engaging study of a field of increasing popularity and importance. Klich and Scheer provide wide coverage of key issues and debates, supported by case studies of both emerging and iconic artists and companies.' - Steve Dixon, Professor of Digital Performance and Pro-Vice Chancellor, Brunel University, London 'A welcome and important overview that effectively introduces concepts and terms of study for the area of multimedia performance. It will be of great use for undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and will likely become a standard text for the field.' - Thomas DeFrantz, Professor of Theater Arts, MIT '...the text is a 'must read' for all aspiring Media teachers.' - Speaking English

Klich and Scheer describe new and emergent forms including video performance, digital theatre, interactive dramaturgies and immersive environments, presenting an up-to-date analysis of the evolving relationship between technology and aesthetics in contemporary performance culture.How do performers and artists use media technologies to create live events? How have developments in audio-visual technology changed the relationship between the spectator and the performer? How can performance respond to the technology-saturated consciousness of contemporary culture? What are the key concepts and terms needed to understand multimedia performance?

Multimedia Performance provides a comprehensive overview of the development, theory and definitive characteristics of this rapidly developing and popular area of practice. Drawing on case studies from across a wide range of contemporary performance, the book introduces key artists, companies and debates. Klich and Scheer describe new and emergent forms including video performance, digital theatre, interactive dramaturgies and immersive environments, presenting an up-to-date analysis of the evolving relationship between technology and aesthetics in contemporary performance culture.

Exploring the different ways in which technology can activate new aesthetic potentials and audience experiences, Multimedia Performance demonstrates the vital role of multimedia technologies in contemporary theatre practice. Supported by illustrations, media theory and textboxes, this is important reading for anyone interested in questions of the live and the mediated aspects of performance, and essential reading for students of theatre and performance.