ABSTRACT

This study analyses the Finnish National Theatre’s activities throughout the decades during which the post-war generation with its new societal and theatrical views was rising to power, and during which Europe, divided by the Iron Curtain, was maturing to break the boundaries dividing it. Pirkko Koski summarizes the activities of the Finnish National Theatre as a cultural factor and as a part of the Finnish theatre field during 1970s and 1980s. Alongside this he examines the general requirements, resources and structures for activity, including artists, places, geographical position, performances and the analysis on the societal conditions. This book will be of great interest to scholars and students of European theatre and history.

chapter 1|16 pages

Introduction

section I|46 pages

Operational frames

section II|161 pages

Programming, performances, and the national agenda

chapter 10|18 pages

Modern dramatic classics

chapter 11|15 pages

New Eastern European drama

chapter 12|17 pages

New plays from the West

chapter 13|10 pages

Social upheaval on the national stage

chapter 15|8 pages

The advent of the small and the young

chapter 16|13 pages

Theatre company visits from East and West

chapter 17|7 pages

Conclusion

The National Theatre during a time of transition