Written specifically for GCSE students by academics in the field, the Methuen Drama GCSE Student Editions provide in-depth explanatory material alongside the play texts frequently studied at Key Stage 4. Whether for use in the classroom or independent study, these editions offer a fully comprehensive and lightly glossed play text with accompanying notes specifically directed towards readers of this age, which unravel essential topics and challenge all students to delve further into literary analysis. A well established modern classic, Willy Russell's Blood Brothers tells the story of Mickey and Eddie, twins separated at birth who grow up to lead very opposite lives, but which constantly and inevitably intersect. In addition to some on-page explanatory notes and the play text, this edition contains sub-headed analyses of themes, characters, context and dramatic devices, as well as background information on the playwright. The Methuen Drama GCSE Student Editions never lose sight of their readership, and offer students the confidence to engage with the material, explore their own interpretations, and improve their understanding of the works.

Celebrating its eightieth birthday since being rebuilt in 1938, Liverpool's Royal Court Theatre is a vital part of the city's cultural identity. There has been a theatre on the site for nearly two hundred years, since Cooke's New Circus started life as the result of an argument about a broken sewer in 1826. Quickly renamed the Royal Amphitheatre (and affectionately known as the Amphi), the theatre went on to serve the city in a number of guises. From an establishment where horses were the entertainers, to the home of 'Scouse' comedy, by way of a music venue, the Royal Court has become a popular, people's theatre. Over the years, it has hosted its share of world-class actors including the debut stage appearances of both Judi Dench and Richard Burton. Wonderfully illustrated, this fascinating book is the first to tell the story of the oldest surviving theatre in the city. The 1938 prospectus declared it to be "a brave venture" and courage has characterised its history. Full of surprises, this book challenges perceptions of the Royal Court celebrating and commemorating an institution that has endured, flourished and re-shaped itself, on its own terms.

From its outset, the Liverpool Playhouse has been inextricably linked to the history of the city in which it was built. The impetus to create it came from the burgeoning civic pride engendered by the city's growing wealth and its status as 'second city of empire'; but its opening in 1911 was delayed by the transport strikes which hit the city. Over the following century, the history of the theatre, with all its ups and its downs, has reflected the history of Liverpool - and at times the city itself has appeared on stage as a key character. While often perceived as Liverpool's 'safe' theatre, the Playhouse - from its inception as only the third repertory theatre in the country (following Manchester and Glasgow) to the dazzlingly creative period of the 'Gang of Four' (Bleasdale, Bond, Morrison and Russell) in the early 1980s, and up to the present day - has broken new ground and issued new challenges. Home over the years to many well known actors, including Michael Redgrave, Rachel Kempson, Robert Donat, Anthony Hopkins, Patrick Stewart, Rita Tushingham, Patricia Routledge and Richard Briers, the Playhouse remains one of the most vibrant British theatres.

Written specifically for GCSE students by academics in the field, the Methuen Drama GCSE Guides conveniently gather indispensable resources and tips for successful understanding and writing all in one place, preparing students to approach their exams with confidence. Key features include a critical commentary of the play with extensive, clearly labelled analyses on themes, characters and context. They take studying drama even further with sections on dramatic technique, critical reception, related works, fascinating behind-the-scenes interviews with playwrights, directors or actors, and a helpful glossary of dramatic terms. A well-established modern classic, Willy Russell's Blood Brothers tells the story of Mickey and Eddie, twins separated at birth who grow up to lead very opposite lives, but which constantly and inevitably intersect. Closely following the requirements of GCSE English Literature assessment objectives, these studies include expert advice on how to write about modern drama. With featured activities for group study and independent work, they are versatile and valuable to students and teachers alike.