Overview

Theatre as Human Action is the ideal textbook to introduce students to the various aspects of theatre, especially for those who may have little or no theatergoing experience. Seven diverse plays are described to the reader from the start, and then returned to throughout the book so that students can better understand the concepts being discussed. Both the theoretical and practical aspects of theatre are explored, from the classical definition of theatre to today’s most avant-garde theatre activities. Types of plays, the elements of drama, and theatre criticism are presented, as well as detailed descriptions of the different jobs in theatre, such as actor, playwright, director, designer, producer, choreographer, and more. The book concludes with a look at where and how theatre is evolving in America and the latest changes and innovations today. This fourth edition has been greatly expanded and updated, including: The introduction of four new plays—Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street; Fences; Angels in America; and Hadestown—in addition to Macbeth, You Can’t Take It With You, and Hamilton A discussion of the rise of social media in raising awareness and replacing traditional review outlets An entirely new, enhanced section on diversity and inclusion in theatre An updated selection of playwrights featured, including Terrence McNally, Lynn Nottage, Tony Kushner, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, to better reflect the diversity of those writing for the theatre today. Featuring full-color photographs, updated learning guides, and suggested topics for discussion and research, the fourth edition of Theatre as Human Action is an invaluable resource to introduce students to the world of theatre.

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9781538163443

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Reviews

A solid introduction to the art of theatre, covering the most important and fundamental aspects of the art... A lively and engaging read.--Robert Gonzalez, Associate Professor of Speech and Theatre, University of Tampa An excellent overview; well-organized and clear.--Gary Aday, Associate Professor and Director of Theatre, Virginia Highlands Community College This text breaks down the theatre process on a human level, explaining what is needed from the people involved each step of the way from concept to realized production.--Angela Bacarisse, Professor of Design and Stage Management, Stephen F. Austin State University

Author Information

THOMAS S. HISCHAK is an internationally recognized writer and teacher in the performing arts. He is the author of twenty-six nonfiction books about theatre, film, and popular music, including Theatre as Human Action: An Introduction to Theatre Arts, The Oxford Companion to the American Musical, The Encyclopedia of Film Composers, The 100 Greatest American Plays, 1939: Hollywood’s Greatest Year, 100 Greatest American and British Animated Films, and The Disney Song Encyclopedia (with Mark A. Robinson). MARK A. ROBINSON is the author of The World of Musicals, Sitcommentary: Television Comedies that Changed America, The Encyclopedia of Television Theme Songs, Musical Misfires: Three Decades of Broadway Musical Heartbreak, and The Disney Song Encyclopedia (with Thomas S. Hischak). He has taught high school theatre and writing and regularly directs youth and professional theatre productions. Robinson has been a featured writer for several theatre websites, including BroadwayDirect.com, ShowTickets.com, and playbill.com, and has written pieces for The Library of Congress, Lincoln Center, Sorbet Magazine, and Broadway Records.

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