The diversity of important work being done by women in many aspects of theatrical performance in the United States is illustrated in this journal issue. The nine articles provide discussions of the following: (1) women's careers, images, and movements in the American theatre; (2) the evolution of La Mama, an off-off-Broadway theatre group begun in…

Directors of plays can make rehearsals interpretively productive, but they must first reject directorial approaches such as beginning rehearsals without analyzing the script, projecting images of the play as it is read, and using the script merely to summarize meanings, static themes, morals, and nothing more. Making rehearsals interpretively…

Presents annotations of two books and five scholarly articles of interest to theater educators on out-of-field research. (NH)

Dramatic theory in the past has been confused with hypothesis, hunch, manifesto, and observation. It is, in fact, a scientific activity--much like theorizing in physics, human society, or art. The current state of the art of theory in the drama classroom faces many problems. Most theatre faculty offer courses called "Theory and…

In spite of the importance of the one-act play as an art form and as a tool for teaching playwriting, authors of playwriting texts have devoted little space to the study of the form. Because of this neglect, there is no definition of the form that is simple and specific enough to undergrid efforts to teach or write it. In the absence of a solid…

This paper analyzes Paul Gregory's 1951 production of "Don Juan in Hell," now considered to be a seminal work in the development of professional and educational readers theatre. The paper contends that the production, which presented a nondramatic work without the usual emphasis on design and spectacle, forced a reexamination of the role…

Believes that children's theater can reach a new level of acceptance and importance despite reduced resources, but practitioners must emphasize quality, standards, artistry, and professionalism, not just quantity and enthusiasm. Considers ways to guarantee and reward artistry. (PD)

Presents opinions of professionals on the current state of the high school play. Participants include a playwright, play supplier, high school theater instructor, workshop leader, and play publisher. Discusses selection, production, and performance of plays. (JMF)

Although the situations in which and for which drama teachers are trained vary widely, six principles can be applied to virtually all drama education programs. First, drama teacher education must be based upon the contexts in which the students will be teaching. Second, drama teacher education should be based upon the interpersonal skills both of…

Examines the relationship of theater and dramatic study to models of learning communities in promoting identity, diversity, and culture. Levels of theater use in education are presented as ways in which educators can foster community. Strategies for developing learning communities using the performing arts are provided. (Author/CR)

This journal provides a focal point for the collection and distribution of systematically processed information about theory and practice in theatre. This issue contains discussions of (1) the effects of cognitive complexity on characterization depth and performance; (2) the effects of a director's system of communication on actor inventiveness…

This article provides a foundation for using theatre as a learning strategy in the content areas for students with learning disabilities, with metacognition as an important factor. Research is described supporting using theatre-based learning as a way to strengthen perceptual skills and improve retention. A social studies example is provided.…

Discusses theater education in the areas of curriculum, production, and criticism, as proposals in E. D. Hirsch's, "Cultural Literacy" might affect it. Explains context, cultural literacy, and contextual criticism in theater education. Traces interwoven history of education and theater. Explores how embracing Hirsch's proposal would…