How to do research in Theater and Dance

Library resources for researchers working on Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies

START WITH GOOD KEYWORDS

Topic-specific keywords will help improve your results in a general multidisciplinary database like Google, Google Scholar, HOLLIS, or Academic Search Premier. 

Use keywords like these in your search:

  • gender AND performance AND China
  • “Lynn Nottage” AND criticism

  • “devised theater”

KEY DATABASES

The best tool for your project may be a specialized search engine, also known as a database. These databases are subject-specific or format-specific search tools:

International Bibliography of Theater and Dance (via HarvardKey) – An indispensable resource, with over 60,000 journal articles, books, book articles and dissertation abstracts on all aspects of theater and performance in 126 countries.

Streaming Video at Harvard (via HarvardKey) – the “Performing Arts” tab lists almost 20 collections of dance, theater, and music videos.

Dig Deeper

Theater, Dance and Media at Harvard: This research guide gives tips on research methods as well as links to databases for primary and secondary sources.

Databases for Theater and Dance- explore the full list of Harvard Library databases in this subject category. 

CONNECT WITH US 

Steve Kuehler, the library liaison to Theater, Dance, and Media, is available to support researchers via email or in-person consultation.

Service Alert:
  • Some Harvard Library locations will be closed or have special hours for Commencement, Thursday, May 26. Please check the Library Hours page for specifics. Ask a Librarian and chat hours will remain as usual.
  • Most Harvard Library locations will be closed Monday, May 30 and Tuesday, May 31, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Ask a Librarian and chat service will be closed on these dates.
  • If you're experiencing an ongoing technical issue when you attempt to access library materials with your HarvardKey during these times, please report it to Library Technology Services.

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Talk to a librarian for advice on defining your topic, developing your research strategy, and locating and using sources. Make an appointment now.

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