This text investigates the fundamental question of what constitutes performance by examining it as a broad, interdisciplinary field that encompasses everything from formal theater to the rituals of daily life. Richard Schechner, a foundational figure in the field, draws upon his extensive background in theater direction and anthropology to synthesize a framework that bridges the gap between artistic practice and social behavior. He utilizes a wide array of examples, ranging from global rituals and games to the mundane performances inherent in human interaction, to argue that performance is a primary lens through which human culture is constructed and understood.

Experts and academics widely recognize this work as a foundational text for students and researchers entering the field of performance studies. Readers frequently note the accessibility of the prose despite the dense theoretical subject matter, making it a standard reference for those exploring the intersection of art and social science.