Theatre History Overview - Part 93 - Political Theatre

Political theatre is theatre that addresses current events and current concerns of society. It is seen as a force that can bring about change and it goes back to the beginning of theatre itself. Theatrical performances were held in the same amphitheatres and arenas that were used for political and religious gatherings. The Greek dramas tended to enhance the relevance of political issues.

It is said that many of Shakespeares plays are political in nature. It is thought that he used code for many of the political figures. There are even generalizations in such plays as Macbeth and Coriolanus

Later, political theatre came to be associated with cabaret. It is a theatre that is for and by the people. Russian agitprop theatre is a specific form of political theatre.

In the 20th century, a new form of political theatre emerged. This tended to be feminist theatre written by female playwrights. In the 1950s and 1060s, theatre sought to include females, not only as playwrights and actors, but as electricians, stage managers, set designers, and more.

Political theatre still happens today. In June 2017, a production of Julius Caesar was staged in which the characters were dressed in modern clothing. Caesar was dressed like President Donald Trump. There were cast members hidden in the audience. Nobody knew they were cast members until they got up and started to form a mob. On one of the nights of the performace, other audience members joined because of the passion they felt.

This political theatre worked immediately. At other times, theatrical presentations are given that make people think. Then, they go out and do important work , canvas, write letter, or take other actions that will bring about change. Other times, people don't agree. The important part is that the political theatre got the message to those people.

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