This book provides an accessible yet sophisticated introduction to the significant philosophical issues concerning the performing arts. * Presents the significant philosophical issues concerning the performing arts in an accessible style, assuming no prior knowledge * Provides a critical overview and a comprehensive framework for thinking about the performing arts * Examines the assumption that classical music provides the best model for thinking about artistic performance across the performing arts * Explores ways in which the 'classical paradigm' might be extended to other musical genres, to theatre, and to dance * Applies the thinking on performing arts to the issue of 'performance art'