Editorial

In our first issue we raised some of the questions surrounding popular entertainments and their definition, particularly in the light of new technological developments which impinge not only upon performers but also upon the reception of their performances. in this issue we investigate aspects of the spectrum of popular entertainments, a format which we anticipate will offer a  paradigm  for  future  issues.  We  are  delighted  to  include  the  investigations  of  established researchers as well as those of ‘new scholars.’ We have also added a new section – “Afterpieces” – intended to offer an opportunity to bring ‘notes and queries’ and review articles about new research or new performance practices to the  attention  of  readers.  We  hope  this  will  provoke  a  plethora  of  1500  word  excursions for inclusion in future issues as well.