Synopses & Reviews
An astonishing variety of theatrical performances may be seen today in the eight countries of Southeast Asia--Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. James Brandon spent more than three years observing and interviewing troup members in these countries. He describes twenty-five of the most important theatrical forms, grouping them according to their origins as folk, court, popular, or Western theatre. He considers the theatre from four perspectives: its origins, its art, its role as a social institution, and its function as a medium of communication and propaganda. Brandon's wide-ranging and lively discussion points out interesting similarities and differences among the countries, and many of his superb photographs are included here.
Review
A masterpiece of knowledge. -- William and Many Quarterly
Review
A most welcome and long awaited first survey... an immensely entertaining and readable style. Choice
Review
A compendium of information and a valuable contribution of its kind... an excellent text for Asian background courses and it goes without saying that for theatre students it is an essential source of reference. Even those Olympians, the sociologists, will find grist for their mills ... it is one of those works we can expect to find quoted and requoted. Modern Language Journal
Review
A masterpiece of knowledge. The Village Voice
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
Part I: A Historical Background
2. The Cultural Setting
3. The Development of Theatre Genres
4. Traditions of Theatre
Part II: Theatre as Art
5. Drama
6. Music and Dance
7. Production
8. Transmission of Theatre Art
Part III: Theatre as an Institution
9. Extent and Distribution
10. Theatre and the Social Contract
11. The Troupe
12. Economics
13. The Audience
14. Social Status of Troupes
Part IV: Theatre as Communication
15. Past and Present
16. Theatre and Other Mass Media
17. Theatre and the Communication Process
Appendix: Major Theatre Genres as Performed in 1964
Bibiliography
Notes
Glossary
Index