Artaud's Theater

Paper Summary:

According to the paper, Artaud's theories are based in part on Cambodian and Balinese dance, extolling a form of "total theater," where visual images, gesture, light, sound and noise take precedence over the written or spoken word. The writer compares this work to that of Jerzy Grotowski's whose approach to theater centers on the actor. The paper finally reveals the commonality of Artaud and Grotowski: the element of shock.

From the Paper:

"Our "theater of cruelty" production has the spectator in the center surround by the spectacle of the play (Artaud 81). Sound and violent physical images swirl about the viewers. Images of crime, love, war, and madness all assault the audience in a revolving spectacle which spreads its "visual and sonorous outbursts" (Artaud 86) over the entirety, reigniting its tired psyche with "intense and sudden shocks to revive our understanding" (Artaud 86). Costumes are ritualistic; masks are often but not always used; musical instruments enhance the work, from ancient drums to the newest synthesizer's sonic extremes; and lasers and very special lights play their part as the "fusillades of fiery arrows" (Artaud 95) that Artaud dreamed. All can now be realized with our current technology."

More papers on Artaud's Theater:

• Essay # 72376 : "Antonin Artaud and Bertolt Brecht"
• Analytical Essay # 59797 : "The Danger of Theater"
• Essay # 15439 : "Ubu Roi", Directed By Antonin Artaud"

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