New Drama in Russian

Curtis’s volume provides a superb scholarly overview ... an essential handbook to New Drama, accessible to practitioners who wish to study Russian-language theatre as well as to scholars, whether the latter are already familiar with New Drama and seeking close interpretation of key texts or insights into specific individuals’ creativity, or whether they require a general introduction to the movement. * Modern Language Review *
A welcome addition to the growing field of transnational studies on theatre and drama … it can be easily adapted for teaching, specifically since several plays mentioned in this collection have been translated into English. * European Association for the Study of Theatre and Performance *
Combining insightful analysis of specific texts, productions, playwrights and theatre directors with interviews with the brightest figures of the Russian stage and a sweeping survey of recent developments in drama in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, this imaginative book is an invaluable source of information about modern Russian drama to date. * Evgeny Dobrenko, Professor of Russian Studies, University of Sheffield, UK *
At once skilfully edited and intellectually ambitious, this book offers perhaps the most comprehensive picture of the international theatre movement called New Drama at a time of cultural and political crisis. * Maksim Hanukai, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA *
Bringing together young and experienced scholars, playwrights and theatre director, New Drama in Russian is a definite must-read for anyone interested in post-socialist theatre and culture in general, as well as for the readers seeking new approaches to politics and activism. This volumes clearly demonstrate how New Drama that started in Russia in the early 2000s with the introduction of verbatim plays, has revolutionized not only Russian, but also Ukrainian and Belorussian cultures, let alone theatre. Furthermore, this volume represents the New Drama as a new artistic discourse on politics – one that doesn’t only reflect on political issues, but creates political spaces, dissensus and agon highly need in societies experiencing populist and authoritarian pressure. * Mark Lipovetsky, Professor of Russian, Columbia University, USA *
All contributions to the volume are of interest and exceptionally well written ... Serves as worthy testimony to the authenticity and vitality of a critical moment and movement in the theatrical history of all three nations. * Slavonic & East European Review *