The sixteen essays collected in The Theater of Essence define the point of view of one of the most influential theater critics of our time. Jan Kott's subjects extend from Tadeusz Borowski, Ibsen, Ionesco, and Gogol to Bunraku theater in Japan, Yiddish theater in New York, and Grotowski's theater in Poland.

Behind the curtain: everything you need to know about the essence of theatre Are you passionate about theatre, but feel you don't know enough about it yet? Let me introduce you to the book that will change the way you look at this age-old art form: Behind the Curtain: All About the Essence of Theatre. This unique book takes you behind the scenes of the theatre and reveals all the secrets of this fascinating world. Are you ready to plunge deep into the history of the theatre and discover all its aspects? 1. Introduction What is theatre? Why is it so important to our society? Right from the introduction, this book answers all these questions and plunges you into the incredible diversity of the theatre. 2. The origins of theatre Did you know that theatre has its roots in primitive societies and religious rituals? By tracing the history of the theatre from its beginnings, this book will take you on a journey through time and help you understand how it evolved to become what it is today. 3. Ancient theatre Greek and Roman theatre laid the foundations for modern theatre. The tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides and the comedies of Aristophanes and Plautus are masterpieces that have stood the test of time. Discover the major authors, the places and the specific features of ancient theatre that have inspired generations of artists. 4. Medieval and Renaissance theatre The Middle Ages and the Renaissance saw theatre evolve and diversify, with both religious and secular influences. Explore mysteries, miracles, farces, soties and the influence of humanism, as well as Shakespeare's masterpieces and the Italian Commedia dell'arte. 5. Classical theatre Classical theatre has produced timeless masterpieces by Corneille, Molière and Racine. Immerse yourself in the rules of classical theatre, the tragedies and comedies that have marked the history of dramatic art. 6. Theatre in the 18th and 19th centuries Marivaux, Beaumarchais, Voltaire, Hugo, Dumas... The theatre of the 18th and 19th centuries was rich in talent and innovation. Discover bourgeois drama, comedy of manners, melodrama, vaudeville and the birth of realist and naturalist theatre. 7. Modern theatre (20th century) The twentieth century saw the birth of theatre of the absurd, theatre of commitment, theatre of the intimate and many other forms. Learn more about major authors such as Beckett, Ionesco, Genet, Brecht, Sartre and Weiss, and the stage and theatrical innovations that revolutionised modern theatre. 8. Contemporary theatre Postmodern, immersive and interactive theatre is shaping our times. Immerse yourself in current trends and new forms of theatre that are constantly redefining the boundaries of the dramatic arts. 9. The technical and aesthetic aspects of theatre There's more to theatre than texts and actors. Discover the technical and aesthetic aspects that help create the magic of theatre: directing, acting, set design, lighting, music, and much more. 10. Theatre in the world and society Chinese, Japanese, Indian, African, Latin American theatre... Theatre is a universal art form that reflects the cultural diversity of our world. Explore different theatrical traditions and learn how theatre can be an instrument of power, propaganda, education and personal transformation. In short, this book is THE must-have for every theatre lover. Don't miss this chance to discover the secrets and riches of this age-old art. Click on the "Buy" button now to enrich your understanding and love of theatre!

A collection of games and music to aid the drama teacher and give ideas for varied classes.

Articles by Jerzy Grotowski, interviews with him and other supplementary material presenting his method and training.