Book excerpt: The Oxford Encyclopedia of Theatre and Performance provides comprehensive, authoritative, and up-to-date information about the performing arts internationally, through history, and in the present. The 4,300 entries, totalling well over a million words, are complemented by more than 100 illustrations. Coverage ranges from ancient Greek theatre to the latest developments around the globe, including non-Western styles. Dance, opera, performance art, radio,film, and television are covered at length. The Encyclopedia also embraces para-theatrical, non-dramatic, and popular performance, including ritual, carnivals, parades, the circus, and public executions. Biographical entries cover the lives and work of major figures: actors, playwrights, directors,designers, and critics. Innovative entries on cities and regions place performance in its local social and political context. Thematic contents, timeline, a general bibliography, and an index of dramatic works help make the text accessible. This is an unparalleled resource for a wide range of readers interested in the performing arts, from academic specialists and students to theatre practitioners, critics, journalists, and general readers interested in the theatre.