The global far right in theatre and performance: on ethics and methods

This essay serves as an introduction to TRI’s dossier ‘The Global Far Right in Theatre and Performance’. This paper explores the far right as a global phenomenon that offers examples both in theatre and performance as well as in contemporary takes on the aestheticization of politics. In addition, this paper considers our responsibility as researchers to study the far right as a form of political theatre. We recognize the ethical dilemmas this topic prompts. However, we propose that rather than avoiding ideological margins as a research topic, they need to be examined and challenged. In addition, this dossier examines theatrical experimentation, mass performance, and popular entertainment, which are usually associated with progressive ideas but are currently used by the global far right to advance their agenda. This paper raises relevant questions for our discipline and aims to start a conversation among TRI’s readership.