Adrian Curtin is Associate Professor in Drama at the University of Exeter

• Introduction: Setting the scene1 Staging concerts: The orchestra as a sight to behold (or not)2 The orchestra as storyteller3 The orchestra moves, the orchestra dances4 Relocating the orchestra and playing the space 5 Immersive performance: The audience among the orchestraConclusion: Behind the scenesReferencesIndex

'The theatrical orchestra is an excellent guide to an innovative, new body of work that has so far largely escaped scholarly attention: theatrical performances by classical orchestras. Adrian Curtin has deftly woven together interviews with key players, audience reactions, background research and his own critical responses to numerous performances by a variety of mostly British ensembles to craft a highly informed, profoundly perceptive and personal book. His clear and accessible writing style and his illuminating insights make this book a must-read for lovers and students of theatre, music and performance alike.'Björn Heile, Professor of Music (post-1900), University of Glasgow