About the Book:

In the course of exploring the theatrical cultures of South and East Asia, eminent Shakespearean scholar John Russell Brown developed some remarkable theories about the nature of performance, the state of Western 'Theatre' today, and the future potential of Shakespeare's plays.

In New Sites for Shakespeare: Theatre, the Audience and Asia he outlines his passionate belief in the power of theatre to reach mass audiences, based on his experiences of popular Asian performances. It is a personal polemic, but it is also a carefully argued and brilliantly persuasive study of the kind of theatrical experience Shakespeare's own contemporaries enjoyed.

This is a book which cannot be ignored by anyone who cares about the live performing arts today. Separate chapters consider staging, acting, improvisation, ceremonies and ritual, and an analysis of the experience of the audience is paramount throughout.

What people say:

"Bringing directorial labour into sharp focus, this long overdue volume represents a valuable contribution to theatre history. It not only heightens our understanding of the art and craft of directing Shakespeare but also enables a comprehensive overview of over a century of directorial practice. This is a book to be read, and reread: there are deep pleasures here." — Barbara Hodgdon, University of Michigan

"An invaluable resource for anyone interested in modern Shakespeare production. The breadth of coverage is one of its greatest assets. A major contribution to Shakespeare performance studies." — James Loehlin, University of Texas

"John Russell Brown — scholar, educator, and former Associate Director of Britain's National Theatre — expands the range and scope of Shakespeare studies." — The Drama Review

"Written by leading academics, this is a fascinating reference book for students and for the serious enthusiast. Its style is easily readable." — Whatsonstage.com

About the Author:

John Russell Brown has directed plays in England, the USA and around the world; he was an Associate Director of the Royal National Theatre for fifteen years and has chaired the Drama Panel of the Arts Council of Great Britain. He is author of numerous works on Shakespeare and contemporary theatre, including New Sites for Shakespeare: Theatre, the Audience and Asia.