Christian theatre has rich roots; from ancient Hebrew dramas to medieval plays; but where does it fit in todays media-saturated society?Performing the Sacred is a fascinating dialogue between a theologian and theatre artist; offering the first full-scale exploration of theatre and theology. The authors illuminate the importance of live performance in a virtual world; of preserving the ancient art form of storytelling by becoming the story. Theologically; theatre reflects Christianitys central doctrines--incarnation; community; and presence--enhancing the human creative experience and simultaneously engaging viewers on multiple levels.This Engaging Culture series title will be a key volume for those interested in theatre as well as drama practitioners; worship leaders; and culture makers.
#1233188 in eBooks 2013-02-18 2013-02-18File Name: B00B77ANH0
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. This is the book we have been waiting for!By GOSmiths book is the cherry on top of a sweet Forrest Bess moment; and the summation of Smiths life-long passion for the Texan artist. We hear from Bess himself in Chuck Smiths follow up to his 1997 documentary; Forrest Bess: Key to the Riddle. Having cherry picked through the daunting scores of letters held in the Smithsonian Archives; Smith presents a condensed route through the development of Besss theory concerning the unification of male and female. Besss own texts are printed alongside texts that influenced him. Smiths book represents the most complete effort to-date to follow the confusing and sometimes disjointed logic that Bess traveled from painting to genital modification. Besss writing is given center stage in Smiths book; which reproduces a vast array of primary sources; including letters and journal entries alongside never-before-seen photographs. Most importantly for those who love the paintings first and the painter second; many of Besss canvases are reproduced here for the first time.Smiths information rich book may well become the starting line for all future Bess researchers.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A must read on the power of vision; and pursuit of transcendence ...By James HondoWonderful book. Anyone interested in the arts; or creativity in general; should read it. Its engaging; concise; and very well-illustrated. I wish all artist books could be as cleanly designed; and well-written. It is blessedly free of post-modern art jargon. The author uses Besss own writings; which are fascinating; to great effect.As I read this book; and pondered Besss amazing and curious life; I cannot help but wonder why some visionary film director like Paul Thomas Anderson or Darren Aronofsky hasnt seized this material. Besss life would make an extraordinary epic film. The angles and interpretations with which he could be approached are endless and so intriguing. Just an idea: Using a voice-over to read from his letters would be an excellent touch.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A Fantastic Introduction to a Visionary PainterBy Joe M.PowerHouse Books consistently produces beautiful editions; and this is no exception. Facsimile letters from the artist; along with journal entries; are interspersed with archival photographs and strikingly beautiful color plates of Besss small; exquisite paintings. Author Chuck Smith (a successful documentary filmmaker) brings an artists sensibilities to his presentation of these materials; he avoids the dry tone of the historian and instead allows his short introductory essays to ring with genuine enthusiasm and affection for his subject. Enthusiasm and affection prove contagious; as Smith presents the story of Forrest Besss life; and his work; in a volume that is a must-have for Bess aficionados as well as the uninitiated -- a thoroughly fascinating overview of this compelling twentieth-century American painter.