Joan Littlewood was one of the most visionary and influential theatre directors of the twentieth century. Drawing on extensive archival research and detailed performance histories, and paying close attention to wider political and cultural forces, this innovative study presents a fresh examination of Littlewood's treatment of the politics of war, Renaissance plays, marginalised communities and popular culture in productions such as Oh What a Lovely War, A Taste of Honey and Richard II. This book offers a sustained examination of Littlewood's paratheatrical activity that centred on her ambitious plans for the Fun Palace, a multifaceted cultural centre, and her numerous playground projects for young people. Alert to critical thinking on ethics, citizenship, cultural politics, class and space, Joan Littlewood's Theatre will deepen and extend knowledge and understanding of the innovative theatrical, cultural and community-based practices generated by Littlewood throughout her career.
"Throughout the history of the nation-state, theatre has contributed to the construction and reappraisal of the nation and national identities. This book argues that ideas of the nation are constantly
The only book currently available on Joan Littlewood and her company, 'Theatre Workshop', this book explores the background to, and the work of a major influence on twentieth- and twenty-first-century
This book uses original archival material to consider the theatrical and cultural innovations of Joan Littlewood and her company, 'Theatre Workshop'. Littlewood had a huge imp
This volume captures the rich diversity of European performance practice evident in the twentieth and early part of the twenty-first century. Written by leading directors, actors, dancers, scenographe
Naked Thoughts That Room About is a selection of McGrath's writings on theatre that span a forty-year period. The volume includes essays, lectures, interviews, reviews, company documents, programme no
"This book explores the ways that pre-existing national works or national theatre sites can offer a rich source of material for speaking to the contemporary moment because of the resonances or associa
This book is the first major study of amateur theatre, offering new perspectives on its place in the cultural and social life of communities. Historically informed, it traces how amateur theatre has i
