This revolutionary introductory performance studies coursebook brings together classic texts in critical theory & shows how these texts can be used in the analysis of performance. The editors put their texts to work in examining such key topics as: * decoding the sign * the politics of performance * the politics of gender & sexual identity * performing ethnicity * the performing body * the space of performance * audience & spectatorship * the borders of performance. Each reading is clearly introduced making often complex critical texts accessible at an introductory level & immediately applicavble to the field of performance. The ideas explored within these readings are further clarified through innovative carefully tested exercises & activities.