An accessible survey of the development of naturalism and its effects on modern-day theatre. Taking into account the philosophical, scientific and aesthetic ideas that constituted the movement during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the book examines why naturalism is still a dominant mode of performance in theatre.

Are you a teacher of musical theatre who struggles to plan and construct lessons? Are you looking for a structured approach to teaching musical theatre to students of all abilities? Do you know your Ivor Novello from your Stephen Sondheim? Despite being one of the most popular forms of performance study, Musical Theatre is often the most difficult to teach due to its part-practical and part-academic approach. With few books on the market directly aimed at teachers, it can be a challenging and daunting task to devise a course of study that takes in the history of the form as well as considering the wider aspects that come together to make a successful musical. A Teacher's Guide to Musical Theatre enables teachers to plan and deliver courses in Musical Theatre with confidence and flair. The unique structure of the chapters guides teachers through key facts and concepts in musical theatre history and offers practical in-class activities for students. From topics for class discussion and essay assignments to journal entries and portfolios to sample test questions, this book is full of practical advice from experienced teachers in the field which make it the idea companion for teachers and instructors on diploma and degree-level courses, as well as those devising courses in part-time performing arts schools. Devised to provide sufficient engaging and inspirational material for an initial term or semester, the book establishes the principles of teaching this relatively new subject and encourages teachers to extend much further into the subject. From The Mikado to Hamilton and everything in between, this book breaks down decades of history into appropriately sized lessons, designed to give students a rounded survey of the subject and an understanding of how musicals work. Offering expert guidance to those with varied fields of expertise and practical experience but limited teaching experience, this book is the only existing guide to structured and stimulating practice.

First published in 1974, Investigating Drama offers a holistic understanding of drama. An understanding of drama requires far more thana study, however thorough, of plays and playwright, stagecraft and techniques, for drama must always be seen in the context of the theatre at work. A descriptive coverage of the basic elements of drama is accordingly only half the purpose of this book, and the authors hope that their plea in the title for an 'investigation' will be taken literally. To allow maximum flexibility the book is divided into independent 'units', which can be followed through as a complete drama course, or taken individually by those wishing to concentrate on selective areas. All aspects of theatre are covered and there is ample opportunity for practical work in improvisation. This book will be of interest to students of literature and drama.

Six of Chaucer's best known Canterbury Tales - the Knight's, the Wife of Bath's, the Pardoner's, the Franklin's, the Nun's Priest's and the Miller's - are here freely adapted for the stage. Original and adapted music to suit the period has been added. The style of the play is that of a spontaneous telling of a story by a group of strolling players, with all the Company taking various parts in enacting the different tales.7 women or men

This book provides a practical, accessible, and inexpensive guide to using improvisation in drama, which lies at the root of actor training, educational drama and drama therapy, in a wide variety of situations. It is useful for teachers, organizers of drama workshops, therapists and trainers.

The play tells the story, in the form of a rock musical, of the great hero of Viking times, Beowulf. The first half concentrates on his battle with the loathsome monster, Grendel, and his marriage to Hygd, daughter of the Danish King Hrothgar.4 women, 9 men

Are you a teacher of musical theatre who struggles to plan and construct lessons? Are you looking for a structured approach to teaching musical theatre to students of all abilities? Do you know your Ivor Novello from your Stephen Sondheim? Despite being one of the most popular forms of performance study, Musical Theatre is often the most difficult to teach due to its part-practical and part-academic approach. With few books on the market directly aimed at teachers, it can be a challenging and daunting task to devise a course of study that takes in the history of the form as well as considering the wider aspects that come together to make a successful musical. A Teacher's Guide to Musical Theatre enables teachers to plan and deliver courses in Musical Theatre with confidence and flair. The unique structure of the chapters guides teachers through key facts and concepts in musical theatre history and offers practical in-class activities for students. From topics for class discussion and essay assignments to journal entries and portfolios to sample test questions, this book is full of practical advice from experienced teachers in the field which make it the idea companion for teachers and instructors on diploma and degree-level courses, as well as those devising courses in part-time performing arts schools. Devised to provide sufficient engaging and inspirational material for an initial term or semester, the book establishes the principles of teaching this relatively new subject and encourages teachers to extend much further into the subject. From The Mikado to Hamilton and everything in between, this book breaks down decades of history into appropriately sized lessons, designed to give students a rounded survey of the subject and an understanding of how musicals work. Offering expert guidance to those with varied fields of expertise and practical experience but limited teaching experience, this book is the only existing guide to structured and stimulating practice.

Jesus is alive and well in theatre (even if showbiz upsets believers). Theatre-lovers will enjoy exploring our rich English tradition of dramatic portrayals of Jesus. Here is a study that ranges widely, from medieval Mystery Plays to Berkoff and from stage to broadcast media. Students (of drama and/or missiology) will find here a treasure-trove of references, critiques and listings. There are plenty of practical applications for: 1. actors cast in the part of Jesus 2. playwrights 3. producers and directors 4. churches planning to use drama, either as amateurs or with invited professionals.

An accessible and engaging second workbook on musical theatre, presenting students with the next steps for extending their skills in acting, dancing and singing. Filled with imaginative practical and theoretical exercises, this workbook reveals the anatomy of musical theatre and offers inspiration, challenges and companionship along the path to successful performance. In so doing, it enables students to structure their time and hone their abilities, so that they can achieve their full potential in what is seen as an exciting but intimidating field. Through this interactive approach, students are challenged to take responsibility for their own learning and development, by closely examining the acting, singing and choreographic demands of musical theatre. This is an ideal text for undergraduate students on musical theatre degree programmes, and general theatre and performance programmes where optional modules on Musical Theatre are offered. In addition, this resource is well suited to students taking accredited and non-accredited Diploma courses in musical theatre.

An accessible survey of the development of naturalism and its effects on modern-day theatre. Taking into account the philosophical, scientific and aesthetic ideas that constituted the movement during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the book examines why naturalism is still a dominant mode of performance in theatre.