7.4 Intersectionality in performance studies
8 min read•august 21, 2024
in performance studies examines how multiple social identities shape experiences and representations in theater. This framework challenges single-axis thinking, encouraging a nuanced understanding of identity in performance contexts.
Originating from Black feminist thought, intersectionality illuminates how different forms of oppression interact within theatrical spaces. It provides a lens to analyze , casting, and storytelling, revealing hidden biases and power dynamics in performance practices.
Origins of intersectionality
- Intersectionality in performance studies examines how multiple social identities intersect to shape experiences and representations in theatrical contexts
- This framework challenges single-axis thinking and encourages a more nuanced understanding of identity in performance
- Intersectionality illuminates how different forms of oppression and discrimination interact within theatrical spaces and narratives
Kimberlé Crenshaw's framework
Top images from around the web for Kimberlé Crenshaw's framework
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Intersectionality - Competendo - Digital Toolbox View original
Is this image relevant?
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Intersectionality - Competendo - Digital Toolbox View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Kimberlé Crenshaw's framework
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Intersectionality - Competendo - Digital Toolbox View original
Is this image relevant?
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Kimberlé Crenshaw | Foto: Mohamed Badarne, CC-BY-SA-4.0 | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Intersectionality - Competendo - Digital Toolbox View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Coined by legal scholar in 1989 to address the unique experiences of Black women
- Highlights how race and gender intersect to create specific forms of discrimination and
- Emphasizes the limitations of viewing oppression through a single-identity lens
- Applies to various intersecting identities (race, gender, class, sexuality, disability)
Historical context
- Emerged from Black feminist thought and activism in the 1960s and 1970s
- Builds on earlier work by scholars like Sojourner Truth and Anna Julia Cooper
- Developed in response to the limitations of second-wave feminism and civil rights movements
- Gained prominence in academia during the 1990s and 2000s
Feminist and critical race theory
- Intersectionality draws from both feminist theory and
- Challenges essentialist notions of gender and race in performance
- Examines how perpetuate inequality across multiple dimensions
- Encourages a more complex understanding of identity formation and representation on stage
Key concepts in intersectionality
- Intersectionality provides a framework for analyzing complex social identities and their interactions in performance
- This approach reveals how different forms of oppression and privilege intersect in theatrical contexts
- Understanding intersectionality enhances the analysis of character development, casting decisions, and audience reception
Multiple identities
- Recognizes that individuals possess multiple, overlapping social identities
- Examines how these identities interact to shape experiences and opportunities in performance
- Considers identities such as race, gender, class, sexuality, disability, and nationality
- Challenges the notion of a single, dominant identity in character portrayal
Power structures and oppression
- Analyzes how societal power structures influence representation in performance
- Examines the ways in which different forms of oppression intersect and reinforce each other
- Considers how power dynamics manifest in casting decisions, role assignments, and narrative focus
- Explores the impact of institutional hierarchies on artistic choices and production processes
Systemic discrimination
- Investigates how systemic biases affect opportunities and representation in theater
- Examines the cumulative effects of discrimination across multiple identity categories
- Analyzes how institutional practices perpetuate inequality in performance spaces
- Considers the role of gatekeepers (directors, producers, critics) in maintaining or challenging systemic discrimination
Intersectionality in performance
- Intersectionality provides a lens to examine representation, casting, and storytelling in theatrical productions
- This approach challenges traditional notions of character development and audience engagement
- Intersectional analysis reveals hidden biases and power dynamics in performance practices
Representation on stage
- Examines how diverse identities are portrayed and embodied in theatrical productions
- Analyzes the complexity and authenticity of character representations across intersecting identities
- Considers the impact of stereotypical or one-dimensional portrayals on audience perceptions
- Explores innovative approaches to representing intersectional experiences (non-linear narratives, multi-character portrayals)
Casting practices
- Investigates the impact of intersectionality on casting decisions and actor selection
- Examines the concept of "colorblind" casting versus identity-conscious casting
- Analyzes the challenges and opportunities of cross-identity casting (actors playing characters with different identities)
- Considers the role of diversity initiatives in addressing intersectional representation in casting
Storytelling and narratives
- Explores how intersectionality influences plot development and character arcs
- Examines the representation of complex, multi-dimensional characters with intersecting identities
- Analyzes the impact of intersectional narratives on audience engagement and empathy
- Considers how intersectionality can challenge traditional narrative structures and expectations
Analyzing performances through intersectionality
- Intersectionality provides a framework for critically examining theatrical productions and their impact
- This approach enhances understanding of character development, audience reception, and critical discourse
- Intersectional analysis reveals hidden biases and power dynamics in performance interpretation
Intersectional character analysis
- Examines how multiple identities shape a character's motivations, actions, and relationships
- Analyzes the interplay between different aspects of a character's identity in the context of the story
- Considers how intersecting identities influence a character's development and arc throughout the performance
- Explores the potential for complex, multi-dimensional character portrayals that reflect intersectional experiences
Audience reception
- Investigates how diverse audiences interpret and respond to intersectional representations
- Examines the impact of an audience member's own intersecting identities on their perception of the performance
- Analyzes how intersectional narratives challenge or reinforce audience expectations and biases
- Considers the potential for intersectional performances to foster empathy and understanding across different identity groups
Critical performance reviews
- Explores how intersectionality can be incorporated into theater criticism and performance analysis
- Examines the role of critics in recognizing and evaluating intersectional elements in performances
- Analyzes the potential biases and limitations of traditional critical frameworks when applied to intersectional works
- Considers the development of new critical approaches that address the complexities of intersectional performances
Intersectionality and theatrical spaces
- Intersectionality extends beyond the stage to influence the entire theatrical ecosystem
- This approach examines how identity and power dynamics shape access, programming, and production roles
- Intersectional analysis reveals opportunities for creating more inclusive and equitable theatrical spaces
Access and inclusion
- Examines physical and social barriers to participation in theatrical spaces for individuals with intersecting marginalized identities
- Analyzes accessibility measures for audiences and performers with disabilities in conjunction with other identity factors
- Considers economic barriers to theater attendance and participation across different intersectional groups
- Explores innovative approaches to creating more inclusive theatrical environments (relaxed performances, multilingual productions)
Programming and curation
- Investigates how intersectionality influences the selection of plays and performances for theatrical seasons
- Examines the representation of diverse playwrights, directors, and creative teams in programming decisions
- Analyzes the balance between "mainstream" works and those addressing intersectional experiences
- Considers the role of community engagement and outreach in developing intersectional programming
Backstage and production roles
- Explores the representation of individuals with intersecting identities in technical and production positions
- Examines power dynamics and decision-making processes in backstage roles through an intersectional lens
- Analyzes mentorship and training opportunities for underrepresented groups in various theatrical professions
- Considers the impact of diverse production teams on the overall creative process and final performance
Challenges to intersectional approaches
- Implementing intersectionality in performance studies faces various obstacles and criticisms
- These challenges highlight the complexity of addressing multiple identities in theatrical contexts
- Understanding these issues is crucial for developing more effective intersectional approaches in performance
Oversimplification vs complexity
- Balances the need for accessible representations with the complexity of intersectional experiences
- Examines the risk of reducing intersectionality to a checklist of identities rather than a nuanced analysis
- Analyzes the challenges of portraying complex intersectional identities within limited performance timeframes
- Considers strategies for conveying intersectional complexity without overwhelming audiences or performers
Tokenism and stereotyping
- Investigates the fine line between representation and tokenistic inclusion of intersectional identities
- Examines how stereotypes can persist even in well-intentioned attempts at intersectional representation
- Analyzes the pressure on performers to represent entire intersectional communities
- Considers approaches to authentic representation that avoid reductive or stereotypical portrayals
Resistance to intersectional perspectives
- Explores pushback against intersectional approaches in traditional theater circles
- Examines concerns about the potential for intersectionality to "politicize" performances or alienate audiences
- Analyzes the challenges of implementing intersectional practices in established theatrical institutions
- Considers strategies for advocating for intersectional approaches while addressing resistance and skepticism
Intersectionality in different performance genres
- Intersectionality manifests differently across various performance genres and styles
- This approach reveals how different artistic forms engage with and represent intersectional identities
- Examining intersectionality across genres highlights both unique challenges and innovative possibilities
Theater and drama
- Explores how intersectionality influences character development and plot structures in traditional plays
- Examines the representation of intersectional identities in different theatrical genres (comedy, tragedy, musical theater)
- Analyzes the challenges and opportunities of adapting classic works through an intersectional lens
- Considers the emergence of new dramatic forms specifically addressing intersectional experiences
Dance and movement
- Investigates how intersectionality shapes choreography and bodily expression in dance performances
- Examines the representation of diverse body types and movement styles through an intersectional lens
- Analyzes the interplay between cultural dance forms and intersectional identities
- Considers how dance can communicate intersectional experiences without relying on verbal language
Performance art
- Explores how performance artists incorporate intersectionality into their conceptual and experimental works
- Examines the use of multimedia and interdisciplinary approaches to represent intersectional identities
- Analyzes the role of audience interaction and participation in intersectional performance art
- Considers how performance art challenges traditional notions of identity and representation
Impact on performance studies
- Intersectionality has significantly influenced the field of performance studies
- This approach has expanded theoretical frameworks and methodological considerations
- Intersectional analysis fosters connections between performance studies and other disciplines
Expanding theoretical frameworks
- Integrates intersectionality into existing performance theories and critical approaches
- Examines how intersectionality challenges and enhances traditional concepts of performativity
- Analyzes the development of new theoretical models that center intersectional experiences
- Considers the impact of intersectionality on the study of audience reception and performance analysis
Methodological considerations
- Explores new research methods and approaches for studying intersectionality in performance
- Examines the challenges of quantifying and measuring intersectional experiences in theatrical contexts
- Analyzes the role of autoethnography and personal narrative in intersectional performance research
- Considers ethical considerations in studying and representing intersectional identities in performance
Interdisciplinary connections
- Investigates how intersectionality in performance studies connects with other academic fields
- Examines collaborations between performance scholars and researchers in sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies
- Analyzes the potential for intersectional performance research to contribute to broader social justice initiatives
- Considers how insights from intersectional performance studies can inform policy and practice in other disciplines
Future directions
- Intersectionality in performance studies continues to evolve and adapt to changing social contexts
- This approach anticipates emerging issues and opportunities in the field
- Examining future directions helps prepare scholars and practitioners for new challenges and possibilities
Emerging intersectional identities
- Explores how new and evolving identity categories impact intersectional analysis in performance
- Examines the representation of non-binary and genderqueer identities in intersectional performances
- Analyzes the intersection of virtual identities with physical world identities in performance contexts
- Considers how climate change and environmental factors may influence intersectional identities in future performances
Technology and intersectionality
- Investigates the impact of digital technologies on intersectional representation in performance
- Examines the potential of virtual and augmented reality to create new intersectional performance experiences
- Analyzes how social media and online platforms influence the creation and reception of intersectional performances
- Considers the role of artificial intelligence in generating or analyzing intersectional narratives and characters
Global perspectives
- Explores how intersectionality in performance manifests across different cultural and geographical contexts
- Examines the challenges and opportunities of translating intersectional performances across cultural boundaries
- Analyzes the impact of on intersectional identities and their representation in performance
- Considers the potential for international collaborations to foster new approaches to intersectionality in performance studies
Key Terms to Review (18)
Audience agency: Audience agency refers to the capacity of an audience to actively participate in, interpret, and influence performance experiences rather than being passive consumers. This concept highlights the dynamic relationship between performers and spectators, emphasizing that audiences can shape narratives, challenge norms, and engage with performances on multiple levels.
Community-based performance: Community-based performance refers to artistic activities that involve the active participation of community members, aiming to reflect and address their social, cultural, and political issues. This approach emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and the empowerment of local voices, making performance a tool for social change and community engagement. It intersects with various disciplines and practices, highlights transnational connections, and embraces diverse identities within a community framework.
Critical Race Theory: Critical Race Theory (CRT) is an intellectual movement and framework that examines the relationship between race, racism, and power in society. It challenges the ways in which race and racial inequality are constructed and maintained within legal and social systems, emphasizing the lived experiences of marginalized communities. CRT connects to various cultural expressions, showcasing how race impacts identity and performance across different contexts.
Cultural Context: Cultural context refers to the environment of ideas, customs, beliefs, and social norms that shape a particular performance or event. This term is crucial for understanding how cultural dynamics influence meaning, perception, and interpretation in various forms of expression, including performance art, rituals, and public displays. It helps to highlight the interconnectedness of societal structures and individual experiences within artistic and everyday performances.
Deconstructive Analysis: Deconstructive analysis is a critical approach that seeks to uncover and challenge the underlying assumptions, meanings, and power structures in texts, performances, and cultural practices. This method reveals how meanings can shift based on context and perspective, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of identity and representation. It emphasizes that no single interpretation is definitive, highlighting the complexities and contradictions inherent in communication and performance.
Feminist performance theory: Feminist performance theory is an analytical framework that examines the ways in which gender, particularly women's experiences and perspectives, are expressed and represented in performance art and theater. This theory critiques traditional narratives that have marginalized or excluded women's voices, highlighting how performance can serve as a powerful tool for challenging societal norms and advocating for gender equality. By exploring the intersection of gender with other social categories, this approach also emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences within feminist discourse.
Globalization: Globalization is the process through which cultures, economies, and societies become interconnected and interdependent on a global scale. This phenomenon involves the exchange of ideas, goods, and cultural practices across borders, leading to the blending and sometimes clashing of different cultural identities. Globalization influences performance studies by shaping how cultural performances are created, shared, and understood in a diverse world.
Identity Politics: Identity politics refers to political positions or movements that are based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify, often emphasizing shared experiences related to race, gender, sexuality, and other identity markers. It allows marginalized voices to assert their rights and representation within larger societal structures, providing a framework for understanding how different identities interact with power dynamics.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a concept that examines how various social identities—such as race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability—intersect and overlap, creating unique experiences of oppression or privilege. This term highlights the complexity of social categorizations and their impacts on individuals' experiences within societal structures, emphasizing that people's identities cannot be understood in isolation from one another.
Judith Butler: Judith Butler is a prominent philosopher and gender theorist known for her work on gender performativity, which argues that gender is not an inherent identity but rather a series of repeated performances shaped by cultural norms. Her theories challenge traditional understandings of gender and have significantly influenced fields such as queer theory and feminist studies, as well as the analysis of performance in various social contexts.
Kimberlé Crenshaw: Kimberlé Crenshaw is a prominent legal scholar and civil rights advocate known for developing the concept of intersectionality, which highlights how various forms of social stratification, such as race, gender, and class, overlap and intersect. This framework is essential in understanding how individuals can experience multiple dimensions of discrimination simultaneously, particularly in performance studies where identity plays a critical role in shaping narratives and experiences.
Marginalization: Marginalization refers to the social process by which certain individuals or groups are pushed to the edge of society, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and participation in mainstream cultural, political, and economic life. This often results in a lack of visibility and representation for those affected, reinforcing power dynamics that privilege some while disadvantaging others. The impact of marginalization can be seen across various aspects of identity, including gender, race, and socioeconomic status.
Multidimensional identity: Multidimensional identity refers to the complex interplay of various social categories, personal experiences, and cultural contexts that shape an individual's sense of self. This concept emphasizes that identity is not singular or fixed but is instead made up of multiple, overlapping aspects such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and ability. Understanding multidimensional identity is essential for recognizing how different identities interact and influence each other in diverse contexts.
Performance ethnography: Performance ethnography is a research method that combines the principles of performance studies and ethnographic research to explore cultural practices and social phenomena through performance. This approach emphasizes the act of storytelling, allowing researchers to engage with communities and reflect on their lived experiences, often highlighting marginalized voices and perspectives.
Post-colonialism: Post-colonialism is an academic field that examines the effects and aftermath of colonialism on cultures, societies, and identities, particularly focusing on the experiences of formerly colonized nations. It seeks to understand how colonial histories shape contemporary issues of power, representation, and identity, highlighting the complexity of cultural exchanges and conflicts in the post-colonial world.
Power structures: Power structures refer to the organized systems of authority, influence, and control within a society or community that dictate how power is distributed and exercised. These structures shape social relations and impact individuals based on factors such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, making them crucial for understanding dynamics within performance contexts, particularly when examining how different identities intersect.
Queer performance: Queer performance refers to artistic and theatrical expressions that challenge and subvert traditional notions of gender and sexuality, often seeking to create space for marginalized identities. It blends various forms of performance, like theater, dance, and spoken word, to explore the fluidity of identity and the complexities of societal norms. By using humor, irony, and radical aesthetics, queer performance critiques dominant cultural narratives while inviting audiences to rethink their understanding of identity and desire.
Representation: Representation refers to the ways in which ideas, identities, and experiences are depicted and communicated through various forms of performance and art. It plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and understanding of cultural narratives, allowing for the exploration of identity, power dynamics, and social issues within diverse communities. By analyzing representation, we can uncover the layers of meaning and the impact that these portrayals have on society as a whole.