Description
First published in 1981, this book represents the first work in English to give a comprehensive account of the revolutionary developments in German theatre from the decline of Naturalism through the Expressionist upheaval to the political theatre of Piscator and Brecht. Early productions of Kaiser’s From Morning till Midnight and Toller’s Transfiguration are presented as examples of Expressionism. A thorough analysis of Piscator’s Hoppla, Such is Life! And Brecht’s Man show the similarities and differences in political theatre. In addition, elements of stage-craft are examined — illustrated with tabulated information, an extensive chronology, and photographs and designs of productions.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements; Introduction; Part One The Expressionist revolution in German theatre; 1 Origins of the revolution 2 The theory of Expressionist Theatre 3 Abstractionist theatre: the distillation of reality 4 Primitivist theatre: the distortion of reality; Part Two The political revolution in German theatre; 5 Piscator’s theatre: the documentation of reality 6 Brecht’s epic theatre: the challenge to reality; Conclusion; Chronology 1900-1933; Notes; Select Bibliography; Index
