Theatre and the USA

The study explores how theatre enables a nation to invent and reinvent itself, and how the USAs sense of self is intertwined with its theatrical infrastructure. It examines six canonical plays and musicals, such as Uncle Toms Cabin (1852), Oklahoma! (1943), Angels in America (1991), and Hamilton (2015), and argues that the histories of these plays are the history of the USAs theatrical infrastructure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The construction and promotion of the individual and the "nation" in American theatre is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has played a vital role in shaping the country's identity and culture. Theatre has the unique ability to enable a nation to invent and reinvent itself, as it provides a platform for the exploration and expression of societal values, beliefs, and aspirations.

At the same time, theatre serves as a mirror of the nation, reflecting its social, political, and economic realities. Through its plays and musicals, theatre can challenge existing power structures, question societal norms, and promote social change.

One of the key ways in which theatre contributes to the construction and promotion of the individual and the "nation" in America is through its representation of the American experience. Theatre has a long history of depicting the diverse experiences of American people, from the struggles of enslaved individuals in Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852) to the challenges faced by immigrants in Oklahoma! (1943). These plays and musicals have become canonical texts, representing the history and values of the United States.

Moreover, theatre has played a significant role in shaping the American identity. Through its portrayal of American characters and their struggles, theatre has helped to define what it means to be an American. For example, the musical Hamilton (2015) celebrates the achievements of American immigrants and their contributions to the nation's history, while also addressing the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Theatre also enables a nation to reinvent itself by exploring new ideas and perspectives. Through its experimental and avant-garde productions, theatre can challenge traditional notions of what is possible and encourage artists and audiences to think critically about the world around them. For example, the play Angels in America (1991) explores the HIV/AIDS crisis and its impact on American society, while the musical Fun Home (2015) explores the relationship between homosexuality and family.

In addition to its representation of the American experience and its role in shaping the American identity, theatre also plays a crucial role in promoting social change. Through its advocacy and activism, theatre can raise awareness about important social issues and mobilize people to take action. For example, the play The Color Purple (1985) addresses the issue of domestic violence and its impact on African American women, while the musical Rent (2005) addresses the issue of homelessness and its impact on LGBTQ+ individuals.

Furthermore, theatre can be a powerful tool for promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Through its international collaborations and exchange programs, theatre can bring together people from different cultures and backgrounds, promoting dialogue and collaboration. For example, the play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2013) was adapted from Mark Haddon's novel and performed in multiple countries, promoting understanding and empathy across different cultures.

In conclusion, the construction and promotion of the individual and the "nation" in American theatre is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has played a vital role in shaping the country's identity and culture. Theatre has the unique ability to enable a nation to invent and reinvent itself, as it provides a platform for the exploration and expression of societal values, beliefs, and aspirations. Through its representation of the American experience, its role in shaping the American identity, its advocacy and activism, and its promotion of cultural exchange and understanding, theatre contributes to the ongoing development and evolution of the United States.

Weight: 86g
Dimension: 111 x 178 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350332775