Theatre and Archival Memory: Irish Drama and Marginalised Histories 1951-1977

This book explores the production and reception of Irish drama during a period of cultural and social change, focusing on its internationalization and political influences. It argues for an inclusive historiography that reflects the formative impacts of marginalized performance histories and examines the experimental dramaturgical impacts of these works in terms of production, reception, and archival legacies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 275 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of Irish drama, exploring its production, reception, internationalization, and political influences during a transformative era in Irish cultural and social history. From the vibrant 1950s onwards, Irish theater captivated audiences with innovative theatrical forms showcased at venues such as the Pike Theatre, the Project Arts Centre, and the Gate Theatre, as well as at Ireland's esteemed national theater, the Abbey.

By harnessing newly released and digitized archival records, this groundbreaking study advocates for an inclusive historiography that captures the formative impacts of modern Irish theater within marginalized performance histories. Through a comprehensive examination of these works, the study explores their experimental dramaturgical influences in terms of production, reception, and archival legacies.

The book, skillfully framed by the concept of "archival memory," serves as a valuable tool for scholars and theater-makers alike, enabling them to inter-contextualize existing historiography and challenge the establishment of canons. Moreover, it presents a fresh and dynamic social history of Irish theater, unfolding from the margins of history and brought to life through the power of archival memory.

This captivating exploration of Irish drama offers a profound understanding of its evolution, its impact on audiences, and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of Ireland. It is a testament to the enduring power of theater to reflect, challenge, and inspire, and a must-read for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Irish theatrical heritage.

Weight: 384g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030745509
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021