Street Performance and the City

Street performances in Bath, UK, significantly alter the everyday experience of public spaces by creating fleeting moments of sociality and conviviality. These performances, often aimed at eliciting donations from passersby, intervene in the city's sociospatial dynamics, fostering spontaneous interactions that contrast with routine urban life. However, they also occupy a contentious position, sparking debates around increased regulation and their impact on public space. The study draws on ethnographic observations to explore these dual aspects—highlighting both the positive social outcomes and the regulatory challenges faced by street performers in heritage cities like Bath.

Simpson, P. (2011). Street Performance and the City. Space and Culture, 14(4), 415–430. https://doi.org/10.1177/1206331211412270