Political Theatre In Post-Thatcher Britain

The new plays of the mid-1990s, dubbed 'in-yer-face' drama because of their startling images and raw power, appalled some critics, but signalled the emergence of a new generation of playwrights and audiences. These plays brought back into theatre the political energy that had been drained from the arts during the Thatcher years. The fresh energy has fuelled thoughtful responses and bold arguments from across the generational spectrum. It has brought to British stages new and vigorous dramatic works that explore themes of history and identity, analyse structures of power, and comment on current political issues such as racism, political leadership, the global economy, refugees, and war. It has generated new theatrical forms that engage audiences and challenge political apathy. This book traces the return of the political in British theatre and presents a comprehensive critical survey identifying political themes and techniques in plays that premiered between 1995 and 2005.

About the Author:
Amelia Howe Kritzer is Associate Professor in the Department of Theater, University of St Thomas, Minnesota, USA