Theatre in the Round

In this comprehensive examination of the history and techniques of in-the-round staging, Stephen Joseph unites scholarship with a practical distillation of his own production experience in an attempt to document the myriad possibilities of arena staging in its complexity. Each of the elements which comprise this form of theatre is dealt with in detail, from the conversion of irregular halls through the use of portable bleachers to the construction of new arena theatres; from the selection of plays to the most minute production detail. Problems of sight-line in seating, problems of lighting, blocking, set design and decor are discussed with accompanying diagrams. The concomitant conditions of unaccustomed freedom and precision of movement receive lengthy treatment as they affect actor, director and stage manager during the course of rehearsal for in-the-round performance. The result is a volume of information and suggestion which should prove useful to amateurs, students, professionals and playgoers alike. The book is illustrated with the author's own drawings, sketches and diagrams, and with photographs.