The Rough Theatre, part 1 (p. 73 to 92) Summary and Analysis

The author begins this essay with an analysis of the difference between theatre staged in formal, traditional settings and theatre that takes place in less formal, often dirty, less official settings. He describes the latter as freer, often truer to the spirit of the people, more instinctive, and more energized. It's also the energy of comedy; the energy of revolution, of change, and transformation; and the energy of delight and irresponsibility. He paints a vivid contrast between The Rough Theatre and The Holy Theatre. "The Holy Theatre deals with the invisible and this invisible contains all the hidden impulses of man. The Rough Theatre deals with men's actions, and because it is down to earth and direct...the rough and ready seems better than the hollowly holy.". He then begins a...