Theater in America

"THEATER IN AMERICATHE IMPACT OF ECONOMIC FORCES, 1870-1967 JACK POGGI Most observers agree that the Ameri- can theater is ailing. The author of this lively narrative diagnoses the ailment, and argues that it is of longer duration and the causes are more deep-seated than most people realize. Mr. Poggi traces two closely related economic trends that have affected the quality of American drama: centralization of production in New York City and the decline in theatrical activity since the 1920's. In his engrossing ac- counts of the traveling combination companies that replaced local stock companies, of the conflict among businessmen for control of the theater in the late nineteenth century, of the boom and decline on Broadway in the 1920's, and of the subsequent repeated attempts to restore life to the theater, the author shows that artistic vitality is linked to economic vitality. He assesses the impact on the theater of motion pictures, radio, and television, and of rising costs, the stock-market crash, and subsidies from foundations. His well-reasoned conclusions often contradict commonly held assumptions. In telling the story of the noncommercial groups that arose in reaction to the process of centralization in the Broadway theater, Mr. Poggi emphasizes their struggle to retain independence and maintain high production standards while remaining economically solvent. He presents, for the first time, a detailed history of the Off- Broadway and Off Off-Broadway theater, and describes the development, decline, and resurgence of the resident-theater movement. In considering the effect of economic changes on the art of the playwright, Mr. Poggi focuses on the playwright's freedom to write as he pleases and his ability to get his work produced. Pertinent anecdotes and carefully selected quotations from contemporary newspapers add interest to this tale of recurrent growth and decline, with its colorful cast of businessmen, philanthropists, playwrights, producers, and actors. From its telling emerge fresh insights and a new awareness of problems and possible solutions."-Publisher