First published in 1986, this compilation offers a guide to the major aspects of contemporary British theatre. In the period covered, Britain was among the world leaders in theatre as the post-war years saw a remarkable surge in theatrical creativity, associated with the experimental, innovatory and diverse range and styles of playwrights such as John Osborne, Arnold Wesker, Samuel Beckett, Tom Stoppard and Harold Pinter. Directors came into their own as theatrical entrepreneurs and the new medium of television provided a further channel for the talents of writers such as Dennis Potter and distinguished actors including Ian McKellen, Alan Howard, Judi Dench and Sinead Cusack to name but a few. This volume contains entries on playwrights and their plays, on prominent directors, actors and theatre groups; on alternative theatre, schools of dramatic practice and stage history; on certain critical categories and theatre terminology. It will be of interest to students of drama, the critic, the aspiring writer or actor, and a desirable acquisition for theatre enthusiasts.

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Product Description: The postwar theater in Britain has taken revolutionary steps, offering a wide spectrum of new drama ranging from Harold Pinter's absurdist dramas to Alan Ayckbourn's domestic comedies. Many playwrights from this period have taken bold initiatives to bring theater closer to "real life," while others have shown us the ridiculous...read more

Product Description: From the preface: "This volume contains well over three hundred entries for contemporary dramatists writing in English, thousands of miles apart. It might seem then that English drama is alive and well, but for that to be true, audiences should embrace drama...read more