ISTR Open Access Publication

‘New Horizons: Race and Performance’

The Irish Society for Theatre Research (ISTR) invites interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary scholars and artists to submit papers or presentations for a special Open Access peer-reviewed publication sponsored by Villanova University, “New Horizons: Race and Performance.” This publication seeks to advance the dialogue on race, inclusion, and identity in Irish culture and representation, with a perspective on contemporary evolutions in identity and multiculturalism. It will be published by Villanova University, co-edited by Professor David Cregan (Villanova) and Dr Moonyoung Hong (Hong Kong).

Publication themes include but are not limited to:

  • Postcolonial Narratives: How have postcolonial narratives evolved in Irish drama and performance? Are these narratives still applicable today?
  • Artistic Expression: Has the repetition of narratives of oppression limited artistic expression in Irish theatre to genre and/or identity? How can we explore more diverse theatre practices in addition to articulations of identity?
  • Racism in Theatre: Is Irish theatre and performance racist? What new expressions are emerging, and what more needs to be done to promote diversity and inclusion?
  • Global Realities: How are global issues such as migration, climate change, economic instability, gender inequality, homophobia, misogyny, climate change and political instability influencing Irish theatre and performance?
  • Hybrid Identities: Exploring the hybridization of global identities in the ‘melting pot’ context of the modern world.
  • New epistemologies and practices in theatre and performance.
  • The potential/role for theatre to advance a vision of respect and dignity for all.

We welcome papers, presentations, interviews, practice as research dossiers, and other modalities of presenting research that address the current realities and envision new possibilities for Irish theatre and performance. Submissions should contribute to the evolution of Irish theatre reflective of the diverse and dynamic nature of the human family.

Important Dates:

  • Abstract submission deadline: 30 April 2025
  • Notification of acceptance: 1 June 2025
  • Full draft submission: 1 October 2025
  • Publication date: Spring 2026

Submission Process: Please submit your abstracts (300-500 words) along with a short biography to david.cregan@villanova.edu and hongm@hku.hk by the submission deadline.

We look forward to your contributions to this important and timely publication.