ASIAN THEATRE JOURNAL
Scope & Guideline
Illuminating the Vibrant World of Asian Theatre
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Cultural and Historical Studies of Asian Theatre:
The journal emphasizes the exploration of historical narratives and cultural contexts that shape various theatrical forms across Asia, examining how these elements interact with contemporary practices. - Interdisciplinary Approaches to Performance Analysis:
Utilizing methodologies from performance studies, cultural studies, and gender studies, the journal encourages interdisciplinary research that analyses theatrical performances and their socio-political implications. - Focus on Contemporary Issues in Asian Theatre:
The journal highlights contemporary themes such as identity, nationalism, and globalization, addressing how modern performances reflect and respond to current socio-political landscapes in Asian societies. - Promotion of Diverse Theatrical Forms:
It showcases a wide range of theatrical practices, including traditional, modern, and experimental forms, and discusses their evolution and significance within their respective cultural contexts. - Critical Engagement with Performance Texts and Practices:
The journal invites critical examinations of specific plays, playwrights, and performance practices, fostering scholarly discussions that contribute to the understanding of Asian theatre's rich tapestry.
Trending and Emerging
- Identity and Nationalism in Performance:
Recent papers frequently address the complexities of identity formation and nationalism in Asian theatre, particularly in relation to political changes and social movements, showcasing how performance serves as a site for negotiating these identities. - Censorship and Cultural Regulation:
An increasing number of articles are examining the role of censorship in shaping theatrical expressions and how artists navigate cultural regulation, highlighting the tension between artistic freedom and societal norms. - The Impact of Digital Media on Performance:
With the rise of digital technology, there is a growing interest in how digital media influences traditional and contemporary performances, including discussions on virtual theatre and online performances during the Covid-19 pandemic. - Intercultural Collaborations and Transnational Practices:
The journal is increasingly focusing on intercultural exchanges and collaborations that transcend national boundaries, reflecting the interconnectedness of Asian theatre in a globalized context. - Gender and Sexuality in Theatre:
Emerging themes around gender representation and queer identities in Asian theatre are gaining traction, as scholars explore how these issues are articulated and challenged within various performance contexts.
Declining or Waning
- Historical Theatrical Traditions:
While the journal has a strong foundation in historical studies, there has been a noticeable decline in papers solely focused on traditional theatrical forms without contemporary relevance, as researchers increasingly seek to connect historical practices with modern interpretations. - Western Influences on Asian Theatre:
The previous emphasis on analyzing Western theatrical influences on Asian performance seems to be waning, as scholars are shifting towards exploring indigenous practices and the reclamation of local narratives without the Western lens. - Static Cultural Representations:
Research that portrays static or monolithic views of Asian cultures within theatre is becoming less frequent, as the journal increasingly favors nuanced analyses that acknowledge cultural dynamism and diversity.
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