ABSTRACT
Adolphe Appia has for many years been duly recognized as the most important turn-of-the-century innovator in the use of theatrical lighting, but his ideas and practical investigations went far beyond that to encompass fundamental changes in the use of stage setting, theatrical space, the concept of the role of the director, and ultimately the very definition of theatrical art. Much of his thought, which was extremely advanced for his time, has subsequently been generally accepted and put into practice, while his writings are at last being brought to the attention of a wider audience. Despite this, Appia’s contribution has still to receive the general acknowledgement and critical exploration it deserves.
