Introduction

Abstract

This prelude provides an overview to this new and exciting Critical Events Studies (CES) body of work. Exploring the multifaceted, multidimensional, conceptualisation of liminality is the central refrain of this book, and this chapter provides the key to this analytical compilation. The chapter outlines the theoretical history and foundations of liminality as well as the book’s three sections, each with its own variation on the theme. In ‘Overtures’ we dialogically review the conception of liminality from the editors’ perspectives and liminality’s role in event management education. ‘Oratorios’ focuses on liminality and its association with sports and other cultural events. Lastly, ‘Counterpoint’ closes by examining an area of increasing interest in Critical Events Studies, that of activism and dissent through a critical events lens.