Postdramatic Theatre: A Manifesto for a New Theatre

Introduction

In his seminal work, "Postdramatic Theatre," Hans-Thies Lehmann argues that the traditional notion of theatre as a mimetic representation of reality is no longer tenable. He proposes a new understanding of theatre that is based on the idea of performativity, rather than representation.

The Crisis of Representation

Lehmann begins by arguing that the traditional theatre of representation is in crisis. He points to a number of factors that have contributed to this crisis, including the rise of mass media, the increasing fragmentation of society, and the decline of traditional values.

As a result of these factors, Lehmann argues, the theatre can no longer rely on the conventions of representation to create meaning. Audiences are no longer willing to accept the theatre's illusion of reality. They are more interested in experiences that are authentic and immediate.

The New Theatre of Performativity

Lehmann proposes a new theatre that is based on the idea of performativity. Performativity is the idea that reality is not something that is given, but rather something that is created through performance. In the theatre, performativity is the act of creating meaning through the performance of actions.

Lehmann argues that the new theatre of performativity offers a number of advantages over the traditional theatre of representation. First, it is more authentic and immediate. It does not rely on the illusion of reality, but rather on the real presence of the actors and the audience.

Second, the new theatre of performativity is more open to experimentation. It is not bound by the conventions of representation, so it can explore new forms of expression.

Third, the new theatre of performativity is more democratic. It does not privilege the actor over the audience. Instead, it creates a space for dialogue and exchange between the two.

Conclusion

Lehmann concludes by arguing that the new theatre of performativity is the future of theatre. It is a theatre that is more relevant to the contemporary world, and it is a theatre that offers audiences a more authentic and immediate experience.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Postdramatic Theatre" is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of theatre. Lehmann's provocative arguments and insightful analysis offer a new way of thinking about theatre and its role in the contemporary world.

This book is essential reading for theatre practitioners, scholars, and anyone else who is interested in the future of this vital art form.

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