
In 299 pages, legendary director Harold Clurman imparts priceless lessons and advice to us about directing and theatre, as well as life itself. Clurman guides us logically from the choice of the play right through every aspect of its production to performances and beyond. In his introduction, Mr. Clurman insists he never meant to write a "how to" manual on directing; he instead proposes to have set down his thoughts on theatre in general based on his own experiences. In an entertaining and straightforward manner, the author describes the pleasures and perils of working with such celebrated playwrights as Arthur Miller, Lillian Hellman, Marlon Brando, and Julie Harris, and presents his own directing notes for ten of his best-known productions, including THE MEMBER of the WEDDING by Carson McCullers, THE AUTUMN GARDEN by Lillian Hellman, LONG DAY'S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT by Eugene O'Neill, UNCLE VANYA by Anton Chekhov, HEARTBREAK HOUSE by George Bernard Shaw, among others. This First Collier Books Edition (1974) has eight pages of black/white photographs capturing the "master director" at work and some of his more prominent productions.
Harold Clurman investigates the fundamental philosophy and practical methodology of theatrical direction through the lens of his own extensive career. The author, a seminal figure in American theater, synthesizes his professional experiences to articulate a framework for interpreting scripts, managing production logistics, and fostering collaborative relationships with actors and playwrights. Rather than providing a rigid technical manual, Clurman offers a reflective analysis on the artistic responsibilities inherent in bringing a play from the page to the stage.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Experts and theater practitioners recognize this work as a foundational text that prioritizes the artistic vision of the director over mere mechanical instruction. Readers frequently note that the prose is accessible and provides a rare, intimate look at the creative decision-making process behind mid-twentieth-century theatrical classics.
Page Count:
308
Publication Date:
1974-09-01
Publisher:
Collier Books
ISBN-10:
0020133502
ISBN-13:
9780020133506
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