47th Annual Comparative Drama Conference 

Conference Dates: July 9-11, 2025

Location: London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art - London, England 

Deadline for Abstract Submission: January 15, 2025

Disability Studies in Dramatic Texts and Performance

Papers are sought for a special panel series on the subject of disability studies in dramatic texts and performance. We invite research on representation, imagery, symbolism, societal regulation, social impact, or the construction of disability as it pertains to casting and depictions of those with disabilities in playtexts and dramatic performance. We are particularly interested in researched arguments that might advance understanding and equitability in the casting, production, analysis, and performance of dramatic works that feature (dis)abled characters, actors, and themes.

Papers should be 15 minutes in length, written for oral presentation, and accessible to a multi-disciplinary audience. Scholars and artists in all languages and literatures are invited to email a 250-word abstract in English to Dr. Mary Lutze at Mary.Lutze@uafs.edu by 15 January 2025 for full consideration. With abstract submissions, please include paper title, author’s name, status (faculty, graduate student, other/scholar-at-large), institutional affiliation, and postal address at top left. Abstracts must present a clear argument and have an appropriate scope (usually two or fewer works) as well as an apparent engagement with Disability Studies and drama.  Please send your abstract in .docx, .txt, or .rtf format.  

*Inquiries should be directed to Dr. Mary Lutze at Mary.Lutze@uafs.edu.