Richard Schechner is an influential American theater director, scholar, and performance theorist known for his work in the field of performance studies. He is the founder of the Performance Studies program at New York University and has contributed significantly to the understanding of how performance interacts with culture and society. His writings explore the relationship between theater and ritual, as well as the role of performance in everyday life. Schechner is also recognized for his innovative approach to theater, particularly through his work with the The Performance Group, which he co-founded in the 1960s. His ideas have shaped contemporary performance practices and have inspired many artists and scholars. Through his research and creative endeavors, Schechner has emphasized the importance of performance as a means of communication and expression.