July 17, 2021

The National University of Singapore will host the 11^th World Shakespeare Congress from 18^th July 2021. The six day event will be held online — the first time the congress will be held digitally. The event brings together scholars from all over the world with their own understandings of Shakespeare. The event will facilitate exchange and develop new understandings of the fabled writer and his work.

Digital technologies that greatly transform the frontiers and field of humanities through multimedia usage and online archiving are expanding the possibilities for theatre research. With on a focus on Asian theatrical work, ‘Digital Performance Scholarship: Multimedia Critical Editions on Asian Theatres’ seeks to address four possibilities created by the “digital archiving revolution”. The project will build on the Asian Shakespeare Intercultural Archive, Contemporary Wayang Archive, and Theatre Makers Asia – all of which are part of the Asian Intercultural Digital Archives (AIDA).

Firstly, the research team suggest ways in which digital technology can integrate audio-visual theatre documentation into scholarly arguments. Secondly, the project explores and improves upon comparative work in the field of theatre research through the translation and documentation of Asian theatrical work. Thirdly, the researchers seek to establish interoperability with other archives around the world to stimulate research. Finally, they consider the pedagogical potential of digital technology given the ability to present a multiplicity of audience perspectives.

By expanding the usability of the aforementioned archives and developing various scholarly apparatuses, the research team states that ‘Digital Performance Scholarship: Multimedia Critical Editions on Asian Theatres’ will provide invaluable resources for scholars, educators, practitioners, and everyday users.