This collection explores the foundational concepts of performance theory during a pivotal seven-year period. Richard Schechner, a leading figure in performance studies, presents a series of essays that examine the intricate relationship between ritual, theatre, and everyday performance. The essays delve into the structure and process of the efficacy-entertainment dyad, explore kinesics in performance, and consider the theoretical underpinnings of performance as a distinct field of study, drawing on disciplines from anthropology to semiotics.

This collection is regarded as a seminal work in the field of performance studies, offering a deep dive into the theoretical landscape of the 1970s. The essays provide critical insights into the nature of performance, its connection to ritual, and its broader cultural implications. Scholars and students of theatre, anthropology, and cultural studies will find these foundational texts invaluable for understanding the development of performance theory. The inclusion of a detailed bibliography further supports its utility as a research resource.