Antonin Artaud: Radical Theatre and the Search for Authentic Expression

Antonin Artaud (Routledge Performance Practitioners)

by Amanda Keeys

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	172 pages
Paperback	:	58 pages
Item Weight	:	7.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.14 x 11 inches
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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Antonin Artaud (1896-1948) was a French poet, playwright, actor, and theatre director who is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of theatre. His radical ideas and performances pushed the boundaries of traditional stagecraft, and he is often credited with being the father of the Theatre of Cruelty.

Artaud's work was deeply influenced by his own experiences of physical and mental illness. He suffered from epilepsy, migraines, and depression, and he spent much of his life in and out of mental institutions. These experiences led him to develop a unique vision of theatre as a means of catharsis and liberation.

Artaud believed that traditional theatre was too tame and conventional. He wanted to create a theatre that was more raw, immediate, and visceral. He called this new form of theatre the "Theatre of Cruelty."

The Theatre of Cruelty

The Theatre of Cruelty was designed to shock and provoke the audience. Artaud used extreme violence, nudity, and blasphemy in his performances. He believed that these elements were necessary to create a truly cathartic experience.

Artaud's Theatre of Cruelty was not for everyone. It was often met with outrage and condemnation. However, it also had a profound influence on many artists, including Jean Genet, Samuel Beckett, and Peter Brook.

Artaud's Legacy

Antonin Artaud died in 1948 at the age of 52. He left behind a legacy of radical and influential work. His ideas continue to be explored and debated by theatre practitioners around the world.

Artaud's work has been praised for its originality, its intensity, and its honesty. He was a true pioneer of modern theatre, and his work continues to inspire and provoke audiences today.

Routledge Performance Practitioners

Routledge Performance Practitioners is a series of books that explores the work of leading theatre practitioners. The series includes books on Artaud, Brecht, Grotowski, and other major figures in the history of theatre.

The Routledge Performance Practitioners series is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history and theory of theatre. The books in the series provide in-depth analysis of the work of some of the most influential theatre practitioners of the 20th century.

Antonin Artaud was a visionary theatre artist who pushed the boundaries of traditional stagecraft. His work was controversial and challenging, but it also had a profound influence on modern theatre. Artaud's ideas continue to be explored and debated by theatre practitioners around the world, and his work remains a source of inspiration for artists and audiences alike.

Antonin Artaud (Routledge Performance Practitioners)

by Amanda Keeys

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	172 pages
Paperback	:	58 pages
Item Weight	:	7.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.5 x 0.14 x 11 inches
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE