The New Theatre of the Baltics

Although Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are culturally distinct, they share a common theatre history characterized by resistance, first as a response to Nazi occupation, then as an ideological weapon countering their annexation under strict Soviet ideology.
This comprehensive overview of contemporary theatre in the Baltic states includes interviews with major directors, writers, academics and critics, critiques of significant performances, and historical information to familiarize readers with the region. It not only discusses the political ramifications of the three countries’ transition from occupied Soviet states to independent members of the European Union, but also addresses the aesthetic, cultural and national issues associated with the move to independence and the adaptation of a Western economic model.
More than an introduction, this book is a forum for ideas as well as a detailed, first-hand account of the current scene in Baltic theatre. While useful for anyone interested in contemporary theatre, it is also essential reading for those interested in Baltic studies, post–Soviet cultural history, and recent trends in East European literature.

Jeff Johnson is a playwright and teacher. Recipient of numerous awards, he is the author of four previous books on theater and cinema. He lives in Franklin, North Carolina.

Jeff Johnson
Foreword by Daniel Gerould
Format: softcover (6 x 9)
Pages: 232
Bibliographic Info: 35 photos, notes, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2007
pISBN: 978-0-7864-2992-9
eISBN: 978-1-4766-0893-8
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments       vii
Foreword by Daniel Gerould      1
Preface      5

1. The Crisis of Relevance      11
2. Lithuania: Catholic Spectacle—Directors’ Theatre      30
3. Estonia: The Lutheran Narrative—Writers’ Theatre      93
4. Latvia: Focus on Process—Actors’ Theatre      156

Notes      211
Works Cited      213
Index      217

• Honorable Mention, AABS Book Prize—Association for the Advancement of Baltic Studies
• “Details the challenges Baltic artists face in renewing the vitality of the post–Soviet theater, preserving linguistic identity, and creating work accessible to both the home culture and the larger world…recommended”—Choice
• “Highly informative, interesting and thought-provoking…deserves the attention of as many readers as possible”—Journal of Baltic Studies
• “Fascinating…an insightful cultural history of the region”—Theatre Journal