The Oxford Encyclopedia of Theatre and Performance

Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2003. First Edition. Hardcover. Fine/fine. Two volumes (complete), quarto size, 1617 total pp. From the website of the publisher: "The Encyclopedia's inclusive approach encompasses opera and film, dance and radio, and para-theatrical, non-dramatic performances including circuses and carnivals, and parades and public executions--providing truly extensive coverage from ancient Greek theatre to the latest developments in London, Paris, New York, and around the globe. The Encyclopedia pays special attention to non-Western styles through articles on theatre and performance throughout the many countries and traditions of Asia and Africa. Numerous biographical entries cover the lives and work of major figures: actors, playwrights, directors, designer, company managers, and critics. A unique feature of the Encyclopedia is the series of articles on concepts, theories, and critical approaches, ranging from short definitions of terms like catharsis and monologue to more lengthy considerations of farce and tragedy. Race and theatre, the nature of acting, censorship, safety, special effects, and media and performance are all debated. In all, the 4,300 entries by renowned contributors remain accessible in language and approach and take advantage of the theoretical and historiographical developments in the field."

___DESCRIPTION: Glossy pictorial hardbound books, set up alphabetically for ease of reference, Thematic Table of Contents at the beginning of Volume 1, Timeline, Further Reading, and Selective Index of Dramatic Titles at the end of Volume 2, both volumes replete with black and white photographs; quarto size (approximately 10.75" tall), pagination: Volume 1: [i]-lii 1-776; Volume 2: [i]-vi 777-1559. Dust jackets each mirror the design/text on the volume boards, the front flaps list the Advisory Editors, the back flap of Volume 1 lists other Contributors, and the back flap of Volume 2 lists other works available from the publisher.

___CONDITION: Both volumes are fine, with strong, square text blocks, solid hinges, straight corners with no rubbing, the interiors are clean and bright, and both are entirely free of prior owner markings; both dust jackets are also fine, not price-clipped (although no prices are printed; the set is currently available from the OUP on their web site), the jackets are clean and unsunned, perhaps a stray, small mark of edgewear but not from usage, the books appear never to have been read.

___POSTAGE: The books are quite large and heavy, and therefore additional postage will apply as the standard will not cover costs; we are happy to ship to both domestic and international customers at cost, please inquire for details.

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