THEATRE JOURNAL

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Critical Dialogue in Performing Arts.

Introduction

Welcome to the THEATRE JOURNAL information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of THEATRE JOURNAL, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0192-2882
PublisherJOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2024
AbbreviationTHEATRE J / Theatre J.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJOURNALS PUBLISHING DIVISION, 2715 NORTH CHARLES ST, BALTIMORE, MD 21218-4363

Aims and Scopes

The Theatre Journal serves as a prominent platform for scholarly discourse and critical analysis in the field of theatre studies. Its core aims encompass a rich exploration of diverse theatrical traditions, performance studies, and the intersection of theatre with cultural and political contexts. The journal emphasizes the importance of both historical and contemporary perspectives, fostering an understanding of theatre as a dynamic art form that reflects and influences society.
  1. Intercultural and Transnational Theatre:
    The journal focuses on the study of theatrical practices across different cultures and nations, examining how these interactions shape artistic expressions and cultural identities.
  2. Performance Studies:
    A significant emphasis is placed on performance as a mode of communication and expression, analyzing its role in societal discourse, identity formation, and cultural representation.
  3. Historical Contextualization:
    The journal contributes to the understanding of theatre history, particularly how historical events and movements influence theatrical practices and narratives.
  4. Gender and Identity in Theatre:
    Exploring themes of gender, sexuality, and identity, the journal addresses how these factors influence performances and audience reception in various cultural contexts.
  5. Theatrical Aesthetics and Techniques:
    The journal delves into the aesthetics of theatre, including staging, performance techniques, and the role of technology in modern theatrical productions.
Recent publications in the Theatre Journal highlight emerging themes and trends that reflect the evolving landscape of theatre studies. These trends suggest a growing interest in fresh perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding theatre and performance.
  1. Cultural and Political Contexts of Performance:
    An increasing number of articles examine how theatre interacts with contemporary political and cultural issues, reflecting a trend towards performance as a site of activism and social commentary.
  2. Explorations of Identity and Intersectionality:
    Recent themes emphasize diverse identities, including race, gender, and sexuality, showcasing how these intersecting identities shape theatrical narratives and audience experiences.
  3. Adaptations and Intertextuality:
    There is a growing interest in the adaptation of classical works and the intertextual relationships between different theatrical traditions, indicating a trend towards hybrid forms of storytelling.
  4. Impact of Digital Technologies on Theatre:
    Emerging discussions focus on the influence of digital media and technology in performance, particularly in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has transformed how theatre is created and consumed.
  5. Revival and Reinterpretation of Traditional Forms:
    A notable trend is the revival and recontextualization of traditional theatre practices, exploring their relevance in contemporary society and their potential for innovation.

Declining or Waning

While the Theatre Journal has consistently engaged with a wide range of themes, certain areas of focus appear to be experiencing a decline in prominence based on recent publications. This waning interest may reflect shifting academic priorities or evolving trends within the field of theatre studies.
  1. Traditional Western Theatre:
    There seems to be a reduced emphasis on traditional Western theatrical forms, with fewer publications exploring canonical works and playwrights, as the journal increasingly focuses on diverse global perspectives.
  2. Historical Theatre Practices:
    While historical analysis remains relevant, the journal's publications suggest a waning interest in detailed examinations of specific historical performances, favoring contemporary and applied performance studies instead.
  3. Theatrical Theory and Criticism:
    There is a noticeable decrease in articles centered on theoretical frameworks and critiques of historical theatre texts, indicating a shift towards more practice-oriented and performance-based analyses.

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