Ready for My Close-Up
For readers of Sam Wasson and Glenn Frankel, a cultural history about the making and lasting significance of Sunset Boulevard, whose piercing--and in many ways, prophetic--critiques of fame continue to resonate today. Great films are born of great collaborations, and Sunset Boulevard represents one of the most extraordinary confluences of cinematic talent in film history--but its production was surprisingly fraught, filled with unexpected twists. Why was William Holden, who had never caught fire as a leading man, hired to play Joe Gillis after the fastest-rising star in the business dropped out at the last minute? After Mae West and Mary Pickford turned down the now iconic role of Norma Desmond, how did Billy Wilder convince Gloria Swanson, who had long been absent from Hollywood at this point, to leave her low-paying job as a TV talk show host to join the cast? From the writers' room during Billy Wilder and Charles Brackett's final collaboration to the moment when the film won three Academy Awards, scholar and former Rolling Stone staffer David M. Lubin takes readers on a fascinating journey through film history that proves, once and for all, why Sunset Boulevard is one of the most iconic films in cinematic history. Just in time for the film's 75th anniversary, Ready for My Closeup breathes life into a beloved masterpiece of American cinema.
Ten Fun, Short Plays
Ten Fun, Short Plays for Seniors Readers Theatre By Dennis Winkleblack Laughter, heart, and unforgettable characters fill the pages of Ten Fun, Short Plays for Seniors Readers Theatre. This delightful collection features ten engaging one-act plays written specifically for older adult performers-perfect for staged readings, senior center productions, or just for fun among friends. From humorous misunderstandings and heartfelt reunions to witty dialogue and gentle satire, these plays are easy to stage with minimal props and memorization. Each script includes clear character roles, casting suggestions, and light blocking notes to make production a breeze-even for amateur groups. These are plays with depth, charm, and a sense of humor about aging, family, love, and community. Whether you're organizing an activity for a retirement home or looking for performance material that resonates with mature audiences and actors, this book is your go-to resource. Perfect for: Senior centers & retirement communities Readers theatre groups Drama educators working with older adults Anyone who loves short plays with humor and heart No royalties required for performances at senior living centers-just bring the joy and give proper credit.
Breaking Into New Hollywood
For the millions seeking to pursue their Hollywood dreams, this is the definitive guide to breaking into the entertainment industry that explores and demystifies dozens of careers from acting to post-production, and also takes into account changes brought by the rise of streaming and AI. Everyone loves a captivating Hollywood rags-to-riches story. Take Charlize Theron, who was on her last paycheck and in a heated discussion with a bank teller when a kind stranger--who happened to be a talent agent--stepped in to help her cash an out-of-town check. Or consider Rosario Dawson, discovered right on her front porch by filmmakers looking for fresh talent for Kids. And then there's Leonardo DiCaprio, the son of a secretary and a writer and distributor of underground comics, who saw acting as a way out of poverty. But that's not how it usually happens for the tens of thousands of people who work in the entertainment industry. For many just starting out, and even those already in the business, the road can feel mysterious and overwhelming. From actors and directors to behind-the-scenes heroes like managers, grips, and sound designers, Breaking into the New Hollywood is here to uncover the many opportunities for newcomers hustling in what the Los Angeles Times calls the "company town"--and beyond. This practical guide offers invaluable insights on navigating the industry today. How has working in film changed in the age of streaming? What does CGI mean for special effects? Even with the rapid rise of YouTubers and social media stars raking in millions of views and competing for traditional movie theater audiences, there are still more job opportunities than ever for those eager to start a career in film and TV. Breaking into the New Hollywood is an up-to-date roadmap for aspiring stars wanting to make a living in front of the camera, but it's also for those passionate about being part of the collaborative, creative community like no other.
Queen Lessons
At an age when some women feel like they have to begin to cover themselves up, Holly Shaw, a performance coach and hypnotherapist, did the opposite, taking the stage as a stand-up comedian. In this book, hovering between memoir and self-help, Shaw invites readers into the wild world of comedy, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her, the victories and the trauma, and expertly extracts the wisdom from them into lessons for women entering their "queen years."Do you feel like your life has changed since you hit your forties? Are you done with being "nice" and pleasing everyone else? Do you feel ready to explode with fury and the injustice of it all?Queen Lessons hands you the mic. Read it and you will: Learn practical ways to cope and grow as your body changes and the world begins to treat you differently.Pick up simple strategies for dealing with everyday hecklers.Strengthen the Five Muscles of Stand Up Comedy Courage. Caution! These may make other people not like you as much, but you will like yourself more! Explore your relationship with attention and how you can change it for the better.Meet Holly's inner Earthquake Woman, Wise Woman, and Comedian (who might just be inside you, too.)Say goodbye to "Nice Girl."Change the temperature of a room and shamelessly ask for what you want. There are thousands of books on courage and self-confidence, but how many of those were written by someone trying to make it through mid-life while bombing in front of an audience? No one is more suited to tell you how to take it on the chin and keep going than a stand-up comedian experiencing hot flashes.Before you make one more vision board, read this book!
Kanpur
Winner of a Scotsman Fringe First Award 2025 This isn't a story, this isn't myth, nor legend, this is my life, it is my people's lives. Strapped to a cannon, an Indian rebel finds themselves answering to a British officer for the crimes of Kanpur - an Indian uprising against British colonial forces. Based on historical events, this new play comically satirises contemporary conflictsaround gender, colonial violence, and making art in times of crisis. But who is the hero and who is the villain? Whatever happens, it's going to be explosive. This edition of Kanpur: 1857, winner of the Pleasance's Charlie Hartill Fund, was published to coincide with the production at the Pleasance Theatre, Edinburgh Festival Fringe in July 2025.
Hell in a Handbag
The debut memoir from the unhinged queer genius known as Dynasty Handbag. A freak's freak, iconoclast performance artist Jibz Cameron is best known for her multimedia act Dynasty Handbag, an alter ego lampooning the tragic absurdity of heterosexuality, queerness, the female body, capitalism, depression, art making, and life itself. With her debut memoir Hell in a Handbag, Cameron traces her warped and inspired perspective from a childhood spent with hippie clowns on the broken-down commune scene of Northern California, to making morbid zines as a teen in the East Bay punk scene, to in-your-face experiences of misogyny in New York City's avant-garde theater scene, to the grisly birth of Dynasty Handbag and her droll evisceration of contemporary life. An engrossing and swiftly paced story as candid as it is wise, Hell in a Handbag is an immersion in unhinged queer genius.
A Delsartean Scrap-book;
A Delsartean Scrap-book, compiled by Frederic Sanburn and Edmund Russell, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Fran癟ois Delsarte's method of expression in the late 19th century. This collection provides insights into the Delsarte system, which aimed to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit through a system of aesthetics and expression. Focusing on elocution, gesture, and emotional expression, the book reflects the era's interest in self-improvement, artistic cultivation, and the power of effective communication. The volume explores Delsarte's influence on acting, oratory, and physical culture, showcasing its significance in shaping performance techniques and aesthetic ideals. With its exploration of movement and emotion, this "Scrap-book" provides a unique historical perspective on the development of modern performance arts.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
The Girls Of Gottenberg
Rediscover the charm of early 20th-century musical theater with "The Girls Of Gottenberg," a delightful musical play in two acts. Written by a celebrated team of composers and lyricists including Ivan Caryll, George Grossmith, L.E. Berman, and Lionel Monckton, this play promises a nostalgic journey to a bygone era of theatrical entertainment.Perfect for theater enthusiasts, students of musical history, and anyone who appreciates the timeless appeal of classic stage productions, "The Girls Of Gottenberg" offers a glimpse into the lighthearted and enchanting world of vintage musical comedy. Experience the wit, melody, and vivacity of a truly memorable theatrical work.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
McQueen
A full and frank portrait of the complex man behind the icon of cool. Steve McQueen, one of the first 'cool' film stars, remains a cultural icon the world over. His image is used to sell everything from cars, to beer, to a range of dolls. From the Cincinnati Kid to Frank Bullitt, Tom Crown to Papillon, his roles exemplified a certain school of male charm, as well as grit and a hint of menace. McQueen was born in 1930 into a poor Mid-western family to a highly strung mother and truant father. In and out of reform school from a young age, he was eventually made a ward of court and the resulting sense of abandonment never left him. His big break came with the TV Saga Wanted: Dead or Alive and the now cult-classic B-movie The Blob. Just two years later he was one of the leading lights of tinseltown. Sandford goes on to chart McQueen's phenomenal Hollywood career, starring in some of the world's best-loved films, in tandem with his turbulent private life: his marriages, his bisexuality, the drink, the fast cars, casual sex and violence. As a close friend has remarked: 'You couldn't peg him. He wanted to be memorable as an actor - but in his private life you got the impression he was trying to speed up, to get into the next hour without quite living out the last one.' As Sandford reveals, McQueen's public demeanour of studied nonchalance hid chronic self-destrutive urges which emerged in his favourite hobbies, including bare-knuckle boxing and porsche-racing, as well as several suicide attempts. His 'lost' years at the very height of his fame are illuminated with disclosures of rampant addiction, bizarre health cures, fringe religion and androgyny. McQueen died in 1980 at a 'wellness' clinic in New Mexico, having been earlier diagnosed with lung cancer . His last words were 'Lo hice' - Spanish for 'I did it'. Sandford has spoken to a wide range of McQueen's contemporaries - Hollywood stars, friends and family - and discovered the man behind the myth, the abandoned little boy underneath the movie-god swagger.
The Play Pictorial
Step back in time with "The Play Pictorial, Volume 9," a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant world of Edwardian theater. This meticulously preserved volume offers a unique window into the popular plays and stage productions of the early 20th century. Featuring stunning photographs and insightful commentary, "The Play Pictorial" captures the essence of theatrical performances that captivated audiences. This volume is a treasure trove for theater enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the cultural landscape of a bygone era. Discover the artistry, drama, and spectacle that defined British theater at the turn of the century.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
TT-Train of Thought
Comedy film and theatre project set inside a train. The whole story is set inside a train carriage. Due to an engine failure the journey is dragging on without knowing when it will end. The only information received is from the "camp" voice of the main train driver blasting away throughout the train at regular intervals. The passengers are forced to endure this, pushing them to the limits; into some deep agonizing fits and often deeply traumatic moments. During the journey they all speak to each other either together and in unison or they are responding to their own respective conversation without even acknowledging their receiver's end conversation all veering deep toward their own monologue. No one is really listening to what the other one has to say but the interaction is still vibrant, and often high-ended. Toward the end, it's almost like if all the passengers were talking to a brick wall; but the difference is of course that a brick hasn't got a face or a sound. All the groups share the same conversation but never interact between and with the different groups. They only share the same train of thoughts. The project has later been turned into a feature film: "Adventures Beyond the Hemisphere".
Theatre Magazine
Theatre Magazine, 14 offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of early 20th-century theater. This issue, part of a larger series, captures the vibrant and evolving landscape of dramatic arts during a pivotal period. While authored anonymously, the magazine provides invaluable insights into the plays, players, and theatrical trends of its time. Readers will discover a rich tapestry of reviews, interviews, and features, shedding light on both popular productions and emerging talents. The magazine serves as a historical document, preserving the energy and creativity of a bygone era for contemporary audiences. A must-read for theater enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the stage.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
San Francisco Theatre Research
San Francisco Theatre Research, Volume 1, offers a glimpse into the vibrant theatrical scene of 19th-century San Francisco. This volume, edited by Lawrence Estavan, features monographs on two significant figures: Stephen C. Massett, a singer, writer, and showman, and Joseph A. Rowe, a pioneer circus manager. Explore the lives and careers of these influential personalities who shaped the entertainment landscape of early San Francisco. Discover Massett's contributions as a performer and writer, and delve into Rowe's pioneering efforts in circus management. This meticulously researched work provides valuable insights into the cultural history of San Francisco and the evolution of American entertainment.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Theatre Magazine
Theatre Magazine offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of early 20th-century stagecraft and dramatic arts. This issue provides a snapshot of the theatrical landscape, capturing the trends, personalities, and performances that defined the era. Readers will discover insightful articles, reviews, and perhaps even behind-the-scenes glimpses of productions. For historians, theater enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural fabric of the past, Theatre Magazine provides a valuable window into a vibrant and influential art form.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Faces Of The Footlights
"Faces Of The Footlights" offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of the theater, likely during the early 20th century. Through biographical sketches and anecdotes, E. B. Colvan illuminates the lives and careers of stage actors, offering readers a unique perspective on their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The book explores the social dynamics of the theatrical community, capturing the spirit of a bygone era and appealing to those interested in theater history and social history.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Laika: The Magic Behind a Stop-Motion Dream Factory
An unprecedented look behind the curtain of the preeminent stop-motion studio, this comprehensive volume is brimming with exclusive artwork, photography, and interviews with key creatives. In this rare glimpse at LAIKA's 500,000-square-foot dream factory, read how the visionaries of the renowned stop-motion studio bring LAIKA's handcrafted films to life one frame at a time. Stunning new puppet photography, never-before-seen artwork, and interviews with the studio's community of storytellers take readers on an unforgettable tour through the studio's key people, places, and processes, from script development to production design, puppet fabrication, 3D face printing, animation, and visual effects. Featuring a double-page gatefold measuring nearly three feet wide, this expansive illustrated publication on the illustrious studio reveals LAIKA's innovations in stop-motion filmmaking over the last two decades, from Kubo and the Two Strings to ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Coraline, Missing Link, and Wildwood. Copyright (c) 2026 LAIKA, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Embracing Disruption
This volume celebrates the centrality of clowning in Shakespeare's conception of theatre and explores how he purposefully invited the clown's anarchic energy into the heart of his dramaturgy.Clowning was a potent but divisive force in the theater of Shakespeare's time, challenging the emerging tyranny of decorum and the developing notion of the authorial voice. As such, the figure of the clown is key to understanding the pervasive tension between existing and emergent forms of Elizabethan theater, and unlocks forgotten levels of meaning in Shakespeare's plays, meanings that were only fully experienced in performance rather than on the page. The great clown Dick Tarleton dominated the London theater of the 1580s and deeply informed Shakespeare's understanding of the anarchic power of performance. By the 1590s, however, the clown's voice was increasingly silenced by emerging theater practice intent on authorial control and Elizabethan codes of decorum. Against the dominant critical tide, Shakespeare continued to embrace clowning and worked closely with Will Kemp - Tarleton's successor as the greatest clown of his age - specifically and deliberately placing him alongside his leading man, Richard Burbage, the originator of the roles of Romeo, Hal, Hamlet and many others. Through an analysis of key scenes in Romeo and Juliet and Henry IV, Embracing Disruption illustrates the enormously generative, unstable, and compelling relationship between these two actors, Burbage and Kemp - the hero and the clown - and how their extraordinary dynamic was experienced on the stage rather than on the page. This hero-clown dynamic continues even after Kemp's departure from Shakespeare's company: Hamlet features the ghosts of Tarleton and Kemp, two clowns deeply informing Burbage's performance as the hero. Then a similar dynamic emerges between Kemp's replacement, a very different clown in Robert Armin playing the Fool opposite Burbage in King Lear. In each instance, the presence of the clown crucially informs the audience's understanding of the hero. Moreover, Shakespeare's increasingly sophisticated deployment of clowning comments on and resists the transformation and gentrification of the theater that defined the Elizabethan era.This study will be of great interest to students and scholars in Performance studies and Shakespeare studies.
Some Account of the English Stage, From the Restoration in 1600 to 1830
"Some Account of the English Stage, From the Restoration in 1600 to 1830" offers a detailed historical overview of English theater during a pivotal period. Spanning from the Restoration era through the early 19th century, this work provides invaluable insights into the plays, playwrights, actors, and theatrical practices that shaped the English stage. Meticulously researched and comprehensive, this account captures the evolution of dramatic arts, the shifting tastes of audiences, and the social and cultural contexts influencing theatrical productions. This volume is an essential resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the rich heritage of English dramatic literature and performance.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Last Ditch and Land of my Fathers
On Last Ditch: This beautiful, dark, urgent and driven play explores and pushes the boundaries of both language and stagecraft. Its rage against unchallenged authority and uncontested privilege is genuine and necessary, as are, thankfully, its insistence on the primacy and salvation of love and respect. - Niall GriffithsDavid Ian Rabey's plays fairly zip along, dancing between myth and modernity, laced with high ideals, fine poetry and pitch-dark jokes. Watching them on the stage, I was moved, amused, and horrified in equal measure. - Mike ParkerRabey's theatre is not a stage but a space, bare and uncompromised. He peoples it with figures 'on edge', in what feels like a dystopian future but very soon becomes visible as our Now, exposed. - David Rudkin The mysterious music of the writing [is] arresting and enthralling, an imaginative tour de force that addresses our own dangerous times and all the times to come. - Patricia Duncker
The Play Pictorial
Step back in time with "The Play Pictorial, Volume 9," a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant world of Edwardian theater. This meticulously preserved volume offers a unique window into the popular plays and stage productions of the early 20th century. Featuring stunning photographs and insightful commentary, "The Play Pictorial" captures the essence of theatrical performances that captivated audiences. This volume is a treasure trove for theater enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the cultural landscape of a bygone era. Discover the artistry, drama, and spectacle that defined British theater at the turn of the century.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
San Francisco Theatre Research
San Francisco Theatre Research, Volume 1, offers a glimpse into the vibrant theatrical scene of 19th-century San Francisco. This volume, edited by Lawrence Estavan, features monographs on two significant figures: Stephen C. Massett, a singer, writer, and showman, and Joseph A. Rowe, a pioneer circus manager. Explore the lives and careers of these influential personalities who shaped the entertainment landscape of early San Francisco. Discover Massett's contributions as a performer and writer, and delve into Rowe's pioneering efforts in circus management. This meticulously researched work provides valuable insights into the cultural history of San Francisco and the evolution of American entertainment.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
A Shoddy Detective and the Art of Deception
Don't be ridiculous Dusty, this isn't one ofyour Shoddy Detective Plays... A laugh-out-loud slapstick whodunnit featuring four actors, a dozen characters and a whole load of chaos. When a priceless painting vanishes during a private auction, Detective Stuart Pidcock is brought in tounravel the mystery. But when he finds himself stumped, he must turn to an old adversary for help. The unlikely duo must question the colourful array of suspects living at the manor, all while trying to track down the cunning thief and solve the crime of the century. This edition of A Shoddy Detective and the Art of Deception was published to coincide with the UK Tour and Edinburgh Fringe Festival run in Spring/Summer 2025.
Local
The Boffs were outsiders, not local like, even though we were born there. I was only really a Boff by association. Solo-storyteller Liz revisits her childhood memories and home in the North in an attempt to understand whether she still belongs there, or ever did. In this multigenerational piece, Liz takes the audience on a journey through the rural landscape and environment of her home, reconnecting with voices from the past and her young family now. In doing so, she unearths some painful home truths. By the end, Liz and the audience discover a shared reality that she hadn't set out to find. Local will have audiences laughing and crying simultaneously, it will feel familiar but unsettling. Visuals and sound help encompass Liz's world in the early 90s. This edition of Local was published to coincide with the production at Rosehill Theatre, Cumbria and subsequent UK tour in May-June 2025.
H to He (I'm Turning Into a Man) and See Primark and Die (Buy Little Buy Less Buy Nothing at All)
In June 2025 Claire Dowie returned to the Finborough Theatre where she started her career as a stand-up comedian, playwright and performer more than forty years ago. Her Swansong featured four plays from four decades.This dual-edition was published to coincide with her 2025 return to the Finborough Theatre, and contains two of the four plays. The other two are also published by Methuen Drama in Why Is John Lennon Wearing aSkirt?: and Other Stand-up Theatre Plays.H to He (I'm turning into a man) is inspired by Kafka's Metamorphosis and tells the story of a woman discovering she's turning into a man. Claire Dowie offers a shocking exploration of gender, sexuality and ageing.See Primark and Dieconcerns a sudden inability to shop. Is this a reaction to capitalism or a desire to live like Aunt Alice digging for victory with her companion Elizabeth?Claire Dowie has won numerous awards for her writing and performances including a 1988 Time Out Theatre Award, a 1991 London Fringe Award and awards for H toHe (I'm turning into a man) from Thespis in Germany and MonoAKT in Kosovo.
The Evolution of Horror
Discover the terrifying history of horror cinema in this wickedly entertaining guide. Adapted from the acclaimed podcast, The Evolution of Horror takes a deep dive into the history of cinema's darkest genre. Covering everything from silent films to modern masterpieces, author Mike Muncer breaks down eight key horror subgenres - including vampires, slashers, zombies and ghost stories - to explore the tropes, motifs, historical context and psychology behind why certain stories scare us so much. Each chapter includes reviews of a host of major movies and cult classics, from Psycho to Sinners, plus a guide to the hallmarks of the subgenre and the legendary filmmakers who have mastered it. Stylishly illustrated throughout with stills, posters and stunning artworks by artist Mike Lee-Graham, this is a must-read guide to the eclectic, enthralling and deliciously macabre world of horror.
Reimagining Masculinity and Violence in `Game of Thrones` and `a Song of Ice and Fire`
In this examination of violence and masculinity in George R. R. Martin's fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire and its television adaptation Game of Thrones, Tobi Evans offers a queer reading that revises the idea that the texts glorify violence. Moving from monstrous men characters and sovereigns to female, disabled, and genderqueer masculinities, Violent Fantasies understands the novels and television series to offer a complex and ambiguous negotiation of different types of violence. Deploying queer feminist poststructuralist and psychoanalytic approaches to the acts of violence that masculine characters use, Evans views hegemonic violence as part of a destructive cycle wherein characters use violence to dominate others but have their violence turned against them in such a way that their bodies become disgusting and they are unable to enter into systems of patriarchal reproduction. The only characters who succeed in proliferating their values and knowledges are those who use violence to care for others. These characters are also threatened with a bodily undoing when they use violence, but their bodily borders are secured because of their connections to others and their queer kinship bonds. Violence transforms the body, Evans argues, in ways that are both circular and ideologically ambivalent.
An Idea for a Theatre Ecology
An Idea for a Theatre Ecology is the first book in the discipline of Theatre and Performance Studies to provide a rigorous and coherent theory of the ecology that is immanent to the theatrical medium. Over six clearly written chapters, the book provides a genealogy, outlines a method, provides a lexicon and demonstrates an alternative practice of ecoperformance analysis grounded in the figure of the archipelago. Focusing on Antonin Artaud's theatre of cruelty, the book argues that theatre has no need to provide ecological messages nor to transform itself into a platform for the narration of ecological stories. Instead, more is to be gained, environmentally and politically, by concentrating on the power of images, gestures and voices to create corporeal affects and sensations that implicate the spectators in a terrestrial event.
An Epistemology of Criminological Cinema
Standing at the intersection of criminology and philosophy, this book demonstrates the ways in which mythic movies and television series can provide understanding of actual crimes and social harms.
Inter-Asia in Motion
This book explores dance and choreography as sites for the articulation of new theoretical and historical paradigms in inter-Asia cultural studies. It covers a range of dance works, artists, genres, and media, from Kathak to K-pop flash mob dance, Cold War diplomacy to avant-garde dance collaborations, and festival dance to dance on screen.
Karma Grinders
An ambitious young psychopath whose ambitious life plans have been derailed creates a torture cult and lures in the people responsible by drugging them with a mind control psychedelic to get revenge and to try to get her old life back.
Dramatic Reader for Lower Grades
Unlock the world of imagination and creativity with "Dramatic Reader for Lower Grades," a timeless treasure now republished by Alpha Editions! This captivating collection, long out of print, has been meticulously restored to inspire today s and future generations of young readers. Dive into engaging stories that not only entertain but also serve as essential educational reading materials for lower grades. Each piece encourages interactive reading activities, making it a perfect tool for parents and educators alike. With a focus on drama in education, this book promotes performative reading techniques that enhance reading comprehension for beginners and foster literacy development for children. What sets this edition apart is its unique literary and historical significance. As a collector s item, it offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of children s literature, celebrating the art of storytelling that has shaped young minds for generations. Whether you are a casual reader seeking fun reading exercises or a collector of classic literature, "Dramatic Reader for Lower Grades" is a must-have addition to your library. Embrace the joy of reading and let your child embark on an unforgettable journey through the power of words! Don t miss out on this cultural gem order your copy today!
Connecticut Wide-Awake Songster
Awaken your spirit with the "Connecticut Wide-Awake Songster," a vibrant collection of 19th-century American folk songs that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Connecticut. This beloved anthology, long out of print, has been meticulously restored by Alpha Editions for today s and future generations, making it not just a reprint, but a true cultural treasure and collector s item. Dive into a world where traditional songs echo the voices of the past, capturing the essence of regional folk traditions and the heart of American cultural heritage. Each page invites you to explore the lyrical beauty and melodies that have shaped gatherings, celebrations, and community life. This book is more than just a historical songbook; it serves as an educational resource for music lovers and a nostalgic journey for casual readers seeking to connect with the roots of American music. Whether you re a classic literature collector or simply looking to enrich your musical repertoire, the "Connecticut Wide-Awake Songster" is an essential addition to your library. Rediscover the joy of singing together and the timeless charm of folk music with this unique anthology that resonates with the spirit of connection and celebration. Don t miss your chance to own this captivating piece of American music history!
Theatre and the Threshold of Death
On the eve of a global pandemic, Kathleen Gough, a theatre professor, becomes immersed in the lives of five artist-mystics, each of whom is a pioneer in her field: Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179), the first known musical composer; Eleanora Duse (1858-1924), the first modern actor in the Western world; Simone Weil (1909-1943), philosopher, activist, and mystic, whom Albert Camus called "the only great spirit of our time"; Marina Abramovic (b. 1946), "the grandmother of performance art"; and Hilma af Klint (1862-1944), the first known (and belatedly acknowledged) abstract painter. Each time Gough crosses a threshold into their world, she is compelled to attend courses, seminars and workshops that are simultaneously about dying and healing.Curious to learn more about the relationships between art practice, dying, and healing, Gough imagines the five artists as wisdom teachers in a mystery school. In a series of eight lectures, she turns to performance theory to provide a framework for engaging with the unknown world. In Theatre and the Threshold of Death, Gough makes a persuasive argument for the world-making power of relational thinking in our increasingly polarized age.
Streaming Horrors
Audiovisual content has transformed significantly with technological advancements and the rise of new media. In addition to revitalizing older works by making them accessible to a broader audience, streaming platforms also create exclusive original content designed specifically for online consumption. This is especially evident in horror films and television; new methods of narration and storytelling have enhanced the genre, and streaming has made it more widely available than before. This collection of essays examines audiovisual horror's adaptation to the features and audience of the digital era. The essays focus on the various effects of new media in the audiovisual landscape with regard to institutions, audiences, and content. The horror genre has undergone a rapid evolution and re-invention as technology has shaped both the narratives and the ways in which consumers interact with on-screen content.
The Theatre of Kander and Ebb
Discover John Kander and Fred Ebb, the most artistically and commercially successful musical theatre writing team since Rodgers and Hammerstein, in a brand new way.Identifying the theatrical approach that renders their musical dramaturgy unique, this book explores their importance within, and contribution to, musical theatre history. Through their biggest hits, Cabaret (1966) and Chicago (1975), Kander and Ebb have been performed on the stage more times both within and outside of the USA than any other American musical theatre writers. Unlike Sondheim, whose work from 1964 increasingly aspired towards the avant-garde, Kander and Ebb located their projects in a nexus between art and commercial entertainment, seeking to deconstruct popular forms in order to expose their ideological function. This book investigates the full range of Kander and Ebb's collaboration from the pure comic entertainment of 70, Girls, 70 (1971) and Curtains (2006) to more overtly serious musicals such as Kiss of the Spiderwoman (1992), The Scottsboro Boys (2010) and The Visit (2014), which were less commercially successful precisely because they addressed disturbing subjects. It explores how the difficult material inspired beautiful, though challenging, scores. It also probes how the ironic counterpointing of luscious music with witty and demotic lyrics challenges the desire of a Broadway audience for escapist entertainment, devoid of critical self-reflection, in order to create complex, yet popular, masterpieces of the genre. This is the first volume to explicitly analyse the recurrent theatrical tropes and dramaturgical forms in Kander and Ebb's musicals, offering an in-depth introduction to their oeuvre.
Broadway Nation
A groundbreaking exploration that reveals the powerful impact of marginalized groups on the evolution of the Broadway Musical. At the turn of the 20th century, immigrants, Jews, Queers, and African Americans faced exclusion from mainstream American society, with limited employment opportunities. They found their calling in the emerging field of "Show Business", particularly the burgeoning Broadway Musical. Their pioneering spirit not only seized this opportunity but also continued to shape and dominate the Broadway Musical for over a century, creating an art form that has deeply influenced American culture. Throughout its history, the Broadway Musical has subtly and at times boldly championed human rights and liberal values, reflecting its creators' and performers' diverse backgrounds. Unlike previous works on musical theatre history, this book weaves these diverse threads into a comprehensive narrative, repositioning Black, Queer, and Women artists at the heart of the story, acknowledging their long-standing contributions often overlooked. Broadway Nation is a valuable resource for both students and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this beloved American art form. Readers will gain profound insights into the history and transformation of the Broadway Musical over a span of more than a century. Additionally, the book celebrates the remarkable artistry and craftsmanship of key figures, from George M. Cohan to Lin Manuel-Miranda, who have left an indelible mark on this extraordinary cultural phenomenon.
Farewell American Tour, Sarah Bernhardt, Season 1905-1906
A rare souvenir from Sarah Bernhardt's 1905-1906 American tour, offering a glimpse into the celebrated actress's performances and public image at the height of her international fame. This program provides a unique window into the cultural landscape of early 20th-century America, showcasing Bernhardt's enduring appeal to audiences across the United States. Featuring stunning visuals and insightful commentary (if available in the original text), this souvenir captures the essence of Bernhardt's theatrical prowess and her profound influence on the world of performing arts. A must-have for collectors of theatrical memorabilia and anyone interested in the history of theater, the life of Sarah Bernhardt, or the cultural exchanges between Europe and America during the Edwardian era.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
54.60 Africa
London June 2025.The fate of Africa rests solely on the zeal and chivalry of eleven adventurous friends. Their ancestral 'mother' gives them seven days to prove to the rest of the world that their fabulous continent is worth celebrating and not burying. Their journeys traverse fifty-four countries, countless boundaries, and endless risks. Lives, history and destinies are rewritten forever.54.60 Africa is an exhilarating, cross-cultural pan-African encounter inspired by the travels of its author who accomplished visiting every one of Africa's then fifty-four nations, before his sixtieth birthday.This edition of 54.60 Africawas published to coincide with the production by the Arcola Theatre, in association with the Elufowoju jr Ensemble, in June 2025.
Press
"That's a powerful message! Theywon't want to see that.""It isn't, at all, and that's exactlywhy they're gonna love it."It's the big day. The announcement is in a few hours' time, and film producers David and Kate anticipate their prestigious Civil War epic Catch Me Some Freedom will be nominated for plenty of Goldies. Until, however, they learn that the film's heroic lead role, played by a white actor, was in real life actually Black.Fearing an intense and career-jeopardizing backlash, David and Kate frantically try to avoid public scrutiny, and keep the film from getting any attention whatsoever.This edition of Press- one of Black Bat Productions' most acclaimed plays, and now a signature piece for playwright Nathaniel Brimmer-Beller - was published to coincide with the production at the Jack Studio Theatre in June 2025.
The Constant Wife
I can't help it if you were careless with your cigarette case. I was extremely careful with your heart Constance has everything. A loving family, a beautiful home, a fulfilling career, and a husband as devoted to her as he is to his mistress. When her perfect set up is threatened, Constance fights back but refuses to play by the rules. Can she withstand society's expectations? And can society withstand the force of a woman determined to do things her own way? Laura Wade (Posh, Rivals) reunites with RSC Co-Artistic Director Tamara Harvey (Pericles) after their Olivier Award-winning collaboration, Home, I'm Darling, to reimagine Somerset Maugham's subversive comedy, The Constant Wife, in a sparkling new version. This edition was published to coincide with the RSC production at the Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, in June 2025.
Farewell American Tour, Sarah Bernhardt, Season 1905-1906
A rare souvenir from Sarah Bernhardt's 1905-1906 American tour, offering a glimpse into the celebrated actress's performances and public image at the height of her international fame. This program provides a unique window into the cultural landscape of early 20th-century America, showcasing Bernhardt's enduring appeal to audiences across the United States. Featuring stunning visuals and insightful commentary (if available in the original text), this souvenir captures the essence of Bernhardt's theatrical prowess and her profound influence on the world of performing arts. A must-have for collectors of theatrical memorabilia and anyone interested in the history of theater, the life of Sarah Bernhardt, or the cultural exchanges between Europe and America during the Edwardian era.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Postdigital Performances of Care
Covid-19 has been described as a 'digital pandemic'. But who might the characterisation of the pandemic as 'digital' leave behind? This timely book reconsiders the pandemic as 'postdigital', examining tensions between a growing postdigital attitude of disenchantment with digital technologies and the increasing reliance on adapted modes of online practice mid-lockdown in both performance-making and healthcare. What emerged amidst the pandemic restrictions was a theatre that was unable to show its face, instead adapting into a variety of 'covid-safe' remote forms of engagement, from 'Zoom plays' to self-generating experiences sent by post. This book explores the ways that both performances and healthcare practices found proxies for direct touch and face-to-face encounters, deconstructing the way that care and resilience were spectacularized by political actors online. Liam Jarvis and Karen Savage explore aspects of care in relation to technology, spectacle and facilitation, and how new modes of delivery and the repurposing of theatre spaces that were displaced amidst the mass migration online have been enabling as well as controversial. The variety of case studies assessed includes internet memes, online films, performances of everyday resilience through social media and participatory theatre productions, including Thaddeus Phillips' Zoom Motel, Coney's Telephone and Nightcap's Handle with Care.
A Beginner's Guide to Directing Theatre
An accessible guide to the theatre directing process of text-based theatre, from the choice of the play through to an encounter with an audience.Moving from how to choose a play to the opening night, A Beginner's Guide to Directing Theatretakes the reader, via a step-by-step approach, through various techniques, practitioners, methodologies and exercises that could be applied to text-based theatre.Through doing so, the reader comes to understand: - The differences between directing (the approach) and the director (the role), how that crosses over and ways to navigate this- A range of practices, methodologies and techniques for the differing and diverse styles, genres, playwrights and movements. i.e. the 'what' of directing- How to create inclusive, safe and diverse practices of casting and rehearsal methodsBy not providing one single methodology, but introducing readers to various methods, the author garners an understanding of how different plays, genres, styles and movements require their own approaches to reach opening night.Whilst not concentrating on devised or non-text based theatre, the book makes explicit how devising, experiential and improvisatory techniques can be embraced to inform the types of methodologies a director may embrace whilst approaching text-based work.From here, readers will be able to know which practitioners and directing methodologies they may wish to employ and will understand where to head next.
Transgressing Later Life Sexualities in British Sitcoms
Based on close readings of three major sitcoms, this book unpacks how sitcoms understand later life sexualities and focusses on how they represent sexually active older adults. Focusing on three representative sitcoms - Waiting for God, The Old Guys and Vicious - it demonstrates the ways in which sitcoms specifically enable and restrict representations of later life sexualities. Tracing how transgressive portrayals of sexually active older adults are couched in comedic terms, it opens up new critical perspectives on later life sexualities that will critically inform public debates and academic research - in Britain and beyond.
Michael John LaChiusa
Discover five time Tony Award-nominee Michael John LaChiusa, one of the most significant revolutionaries working in American musical theatre, known for his innovative and daring approach to challenging the boundaries of contemporary theatre. Michael John LaChiusa: A Critical Companion is the first study that incorporates a diverse array of theoretical lenses on the work of the celebrated American composer, dramatist and lyricist. It also poses the question of how his varied theatrical techniques anticipated the resurgence in popularity in musical theatre in the past ten years. Presented through thematic chapters, this work focuses on seven of LaChiusa's musicals (Marie Christine, First Lady Suite, First Daughter Suite, Giant, Hello Again, See What I Wanna See, and The Wild Party), surveying his oeuvre Off-Broadway, on Broadway and beyond from 1994 to 2014. Ideal for students of musical theatre looking for accessible contemporary analysis, this critical companion offers close readings and textual analysis of LaChiusa's work and original productions whilst effectively arguing for his contribution to "The New Musical Drama" that served as a foundation for some of the most successful musicals of recent years. Published in Methuen Drama's Musical Theatre Critical Companion series this book combines traditional essays with primary research and practitioner interviews that together offer the reader a fresh and accessible look at key moments of musical theatre as a form.
