Robert Brustein, a towering figure in American theater criticism, left an indelible mark on the world of drama. His influence extended far beyond the boundaries of the stage, reaching into the realms of education, artistic leadership, and cultural discourse. In this commentary, we explore the multifaceted impact of Robert Brustein on American theater.
The Authority of Criticism
Authority in the world of theater criticism was once rooted in knowledge, taste, and judgment. Critics were revered for their expertise. However, in the age of social media and instant opinions, authority has taken a hit. Brustein, a critic of immense stature, possessed a kind of authority that transcended his media reach. He was not just a guide to which Broadway shows to watch but a mentor for understanding the deeper historical context and artistic values behind the performances.
A Visionary Educator
One of Brustein’s central legacies lies in his transformative influence on theater education in America. Tasked with revitalizing the Yale School of Drama, he modernized the training of theater artists by assembling a faculty of leading artists and uncompromising intellectuals. His influence reached generations of actors, playwrights, and critics, including Meryl Streep, Christopher Walken, Christopher Durang, and more. His pedagogy and artistic leadership became a beacon for those who sought both artistic rigor and analytical depth.
Theatrical Innovation
Brustein didn’t just critique the theater; he actively shaped it. As the founder of the Yale Repertory Theatre and the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University, he ushered in new work and breathed life into classics. He championed experimentation, making it integral to his vision of a thriving theater. Instead of treating masterpieces as museum pieces, he encouraged bold reinterpretations, engaging directors, playwrights, and actors with the dramatic canon.
Debates and Controversies
While Brustein’s contributions to American theater are laudable, they were not without their share of controversies. His resistance to certain forms of political correctness and his post-racial stance in an era of racial tension stirred debates. The publicized feud between Brustein and playwright August Wilson, moderated by Anna Deavere Smith, highlighted the essential conflict between integration and separatism.
The Downside of Authority
Brustein’s authoritative stance, while valuable, could sometimes come across as authoritarian. His unwavering commitment to the nonprofit theater model occasionally blurred the lines with the commercial world, leading to potential conflicts of interest. His fervent praise of certain works raised questions about objectivity, such as his likening of Marsha Norman’s "’night, Mother" to Eugene O’Neill’s masterpiece.
A Lasting Legacy
In retrospect, Robert Brustein’s impact on American theater remains undeniable. His critical example, characterized by profound erudition, intellectual agility, and a strong moral commitment to aesthetics, is a rare find in today’s theater landscape. His ability to see the broader picture while attending to minute details places him among the likes of Eric Bentley, Lionel Trilling, and Susan Sontag—a scholar-critic whose influence endures.
In conclusion, Commentary: Robert Brustein’s influence on American theater is a testament to the enduring legacy of a critic, educator, and visionary who left an indelible mark on the American theatrical landscape.
Educational Legacy: Robert Brustein’s Impact on Theater Students
What is the context of the Theatre of Revolt?
"The Theatre of Revolt" does not focus exclusively on the French Revolution. Instead, it delves into the works of various authors, including Henrik Ibsen and Samuel Beckett. This collection explores their themes of rebellion against conventional theatrical norms and societal standards. It provides a broader perspective on the concept of revolt in the context of theater, encompassing a range of literary voices and their challenges to established traditions.
How did Robert Brustein shape American theater?
Robert Brustein played a pivotal role in shaping American theater by envisioning a landscape where local theater companies thrived independently, free from the influence of the financially dominant New York drama scene. His commitment to nurturing regional theater was instrumental in catalyzing the regional theater movement. Diane Paulus ’88 notes, "Bob was one of the major forces that created the regional theater movement." Brustein’s vision revolutionized American theater by empowering local voices and fostering artistic growth beyond the confines of New York.
What was Robert Brustein’s impact on theater education?
Robert Brustein left an indelible mark on American theater education, particularly at the Yale School of Drama. His mission was to transcend its traditional role as an academy for the privileged and transform it into a haven for aspiring theater artists. Brustein modernized theater education by curating a faculty of renowned artists and unwavering intellectuals. His influence reshaped the training of theater professionals, offering a progressive and inclusive approach to nurture the talents of future artists.
What is the legacy of Robert Brustein in American theater?
Robert Brustein’s legacy in American theater is profound. His pivotal role in the regional theater movement earned him acclaim as one of its major driving forces. Through the Yale Repertory Theatre, he championed new works, including those by emerging playwrights. This commitment to fostering innovative productions and redefining the repertory theater model set the stage for institutions like the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.), which built upon Brustein’s pioneering vision, leaving an enduring mark on the American theatrical landscape.
Why was Robert Brustein a prominent figure in American theater criticism?
Robert Brustein emerged as a prominent figure in American theater criticism due to his unwavering commitment to innovation and depth in his analyses. Beyond mere reviews, Brustein’s critiques provided a profound historical context for plays and musicals. His influence extended beyond Broadway, as he encouraged the reexamination of dramatic classics. Moreover, Brustein actively shaped American theater by founding the Yale Repertory Theatre and the American Repertory Theater, where he championed directorial and artistic experimentation. His approach was not just evaluative but transformational, leaving an indelible mark on the American theatrical landscape.
Who was the first Theatre critic?
The title of the first theater critic is often attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle. In his notable work, "Poetics," Aristotle delved into a comprehensive analysis and critique of various elements within Greek drama and theater. His enduring contributions laid the foundation for the practice of theater criticism, making him a pivotal figure in the history of dramatic evaluation.
