Abstract
An introduction to the book, The Self in Performance, this chapter begins by contextualizing therapeutic autobiographical theatre within the framework of other western and non-western self-referential art forms. The authors then examine terminology within the fields of theatre and drama therapy for autobiographical theatre that has therapeutic intentions, and analyze the complex relationship between healing and artistic aims in such productions. Finally, the authors provide an overview of the chapters in The Self in Performance, and suggest issues warranting further investigation - including the role of the audience and the role of the director/therapist in intimate theatrical performances.
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Pendzik, S., Emunah, R., Johnson, D.R. (2016). The Self in Performance: Context, Definitions, Directions. In: Pendzik, S., Emunah, R., Read Johnson, D. (eds) The Self in Performance. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-53593-1_1
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