Periodical Performance: A Critical Analysis of Edward Gordon Craig's Influence on Contemporary Theatre Studies

Edward Gordon Craig (1872-1966) was a visionary British theatre director, designer, and theorist whose radical ideas profoundly influenced the development of modern and contemporary theatre. Craig's concept of periodical performance, outlined in his seminal work "The Art of the Theatre" (1905),revolutionized the way theatre practitioners approached the relationship between text, performance, and design. This essay will explore the enduring legacy of Craig's ideas on periodical performance, examining how his theories continue to inform contemporary theatre practice and discourse.

The Mask: A Periodical Performance by Edward Gordon Craig (Contemporary Theatre Studies (Paperback) Book 30)

by Richard Taruskin

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Language	:	English
File size	:	2994 KB
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Craig's Radical Vision

Craig argued that the prevailing theatre practices of his time, which focused on naturalistic representation and the dominance of the playwright's text, stifled the true potential of the stage as an artistic medium. He believed that theatre should strive to be an autonomous art form, unconstrained by the limitations of realism or the tyranny of the written word.

In "The Art of the Theatre," Craig proposed a radical new approach to theatre production. He envisioned a "super-marionette" theatre in which actors would be transformed into living sculptures, their movements and gestures carefully orchestrated by the director. The scenery would become an integral part of the performance, creating a dynamic and expressive environment that would enhance the emotional and aesthetic impact of the work.

The Director as Artist

Craig's most influential contribution to theatre theory was his insistence on the director as the primary creative force behind a theatrical production. He argued that the director was responsible for orchestrating all elements of the performance, including the text, acting, design, and technical aspects. This concept was a radical departure from the traditional view of the director as a mere facilitator of the playwright's vision.

Craig's ideas resonated with a new generation of theatre makers who were eager to challenge the conventions of their time. Directors such as Max Reinhardt, Vsevolod Meyerhold, and Antonin Artaud embraced his concept of the director as artist, using it to create innovative and groundbreaking productions that pushed the boundaries of theatrical expression.

Influence on Avant-Garde and Experimental Theatre

Craig's theories had a profound impact on the avant-garde and experimental theatre movements of the 20th century. Artists such as the Futurists, Dadaists, and Surrealists were drawn to his ideas about the autonomy of theatre and the importance of visual and physical expression.

For these artists, periodical performance offered a means of creating immersive and transformative theatrical experiences that defied the conventions of traditional theatre. They used Craig's techniques to create abstract and metaphorical performances that explored the subconscious, challenged societal norms, and pushed the limits of theatrical form.

Legacy in Contemporary Theatre

The influence of Craig's ideas continues to be felt in contemporary theatre practice. Directors such as Robert Wilson, Peter Brook, and Julie Taymor have drawn inspiration from his concept of periodical performance, using it to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant productions.

Contemporary theatre companies such as the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, and the Wooster Group have incorporated Craig's ideas into their productions, creating immersive and evocative theatrical experiences that engage the audience on multiple levels.

Edward Gordon Craig's concept of periodical performance was a revolutionary force in the evolution of modern theatre. His ideas about the autonomy of theatre, the role of the director as artist, and the importance of visual and physical expression continue to influence contemporary theatre practice and discourse.

Through his groundbreaking theories and innovative productions, Craig challenged the conventions of his time and laid the foundation for a new era of theatrical expression. His legacy as a visionary theatre artist and theorist endures, ensuring that his ideas will continue to inspire and shape theatre for generations to come.

The Mask: A Periodical Performance by Edward Gordon Craig (Contemporary Theatre Studies (Paperback) Book 30)

by Richard Taruskin

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2994 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	220 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE