Steven Adler examines the dynamic life and workings of the theatre company responsible for some of the world's most compelling performances and influential productions of the last 40 years, including ""Marat/Sade"", ""A Midsummer Night's Dream"", ""Les Miserables"", ""Les Liaisons Dangereuses"" and ""Nicholas Nickleby"". ""Rough Magic"" provides a thorough analysis of the many strands of theatrical activity on both sides of the footlights that coalesce in the artistic vigour of the Royal Shakespeare Company. Adler traces the company's evolution from its origins in 1879 as a week-long festival presented by Stratford-upon-Avon as a birthday homage to its native son, to its current incarnation as one of the world's most distinguished institutional theatres. He probes the aspirations and achievements of the RSC's four successive artistic directors: Peter Hall, Trevor Nunn, Terry Hands and Adrian Noble. He offers a comprehensive view of the design and aesthetics of the RSC's five theatres in Stratford and London, and explores the intricate process of crafting a repertoire at home and on tour that responds to the needs of the artists as well as the demands of the box office. Vivid illustrations, personal observation, research and dozens of interviews with current and former members of the Royal Shakespeare Company unite to produce ""Rough Magic"".

About the Author
Steven Adler, a native of Brookly, New York, heads the graduate program in stage management at the University of California, San Diego, where he is also Vice Chair and Director of Theatre of the Department of Theatre and Dance. He has stage managed numerous productions on Broadway, Off-Broadway, on national tours, in regional theatre, and in television.


Book Information
ISBN 9780809323777
Author Steven Adler
Format Paperback
Page Count 300
Imprint Southern Illinois University Press
Publisher Southern Illinois University Press
Weight(grams) 447g
Dimensions(mm) 231mm * 160mm * 22mm