Theatre Revivals for the Anthropocene

The Element argues that the climate emergency requires a new approach to the study of theatre history, which can be developed through an analysis of the practice of theatrical revival during the Anthropocene era. Staging old plays in new ways can make visible ecological or environmental features that might have previously gone unnoticed, and can contribute to debates about the Anthropocene.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The climate emergency necessitates a fresh perspective on the study of theatre history, as proposed by this Element. This suggestion is further explored through an analysis of the practice of theatrical revival during the Anthropocene era. By reimagining old plays in innovative ways, we can uncover ecological or environmental aspects that may have previously gone unnoticed. These features, while perhaps not intentionally incorporated by the original authors or creators of a work, can still be discerned by audiences. Through case studies from contemporary Irish theatre, including revivals of plays by Shakespeare, Lady Gregory, and Samuel Beckett, performed by esteemed companies such as Rough Magic, Druid Theatre, and Company SJ, we examine these connections in greater detail. The Element ultimately demonstrates how theatre can actively engage in discussions about the Anthropocene and provide valuable avenues for theatre practice and criticism.

The climate emergency necessitates a fresh perspective on the study of theatre history, as proposed by this Element. This suggestion is further explored through an analysis of the practice of theatrical revival during the Anthropocene era. By reimagining old plays in innovative ways, we can uncover ecological or environmental aspects that may have previously gone unnoticed. These features, while perhaps not intentionally incorporated by the original authors or creators of a work, can still be discerned by audiences. Through case studies from contemporary Irish theatre, including revivals of plays by Shakespeare, Lady Gregory, and Samuel Beckett, performed by esteemed companies such as Rough Magic, Druid Theatre, and Company SJ, we examine these connections in greater detail. The Element ultimately demonstrates how theatre can actively engage in discussions about the Anthropocene and provide valuable avenues for theatre practice and criticism.

Weight: 136g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009282147