Theatre Practitioners: 150 of Theatre’s Most Influential People

SCHECHNER, Richard

Richard Schechner (b. 23 August 1934) is an American theatre director, playwright, performance theorist, and pedagogue. His pioneering contributions to the field of theatre and performance studies have significantly shaped contemporary theatrical practices and academic discourse worldwide.

Schechner completed his Bachelor’s degree in English Literature at Cornell University in 1956 and his Master’s in Fine Arts in Theatre Direction from the University of Iowa in 1959. In 1962, he received a Ph.D. in Dramatic Literature from Tulane University. Schechner went on to co-found The Performance Group (later renamed The Wooster Group) in 1967, which became one of the most influential experimental theatre collectives of the 20th century.

Schechner is best known for his development of the concept of ‘performance theory’, which posits that performance is a fundamental aspect of all human activities and not solely limited to the theatre or the arts. He has explored the connections between theatre, ritual, and play, investigating how these elements inform social and cultural dynamics. His groundbreaking works, including ‘Environmental Theatre’ (1973) and ‘The End of Humanism’ (1982), have challenged conventional theatre norms, broadening the scope and understanding of performance.

In 1975, Schechner founded the academic journal ‘TDR: The Drama Review’, which he has since edited. The journal has become a premier platform for scholarly research on performance and theatre.

Theatre Practitioners: 150 of Theatre’s Most Influential People - The Drama Teacher (1)

SHAKESPEARE, William

ACTOR | ELIZABETHAN THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

William Shakespeare (baptised 26 April 1564 – 23 April 1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent dramatist. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, he is often called England’s national poet and the “Bard of Avon.”

Shakespeare’s extant works consist of approximately 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and a few additional poems. His plays can be categorised as comedies, histories, and tragedies, with notable examples including “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “King Lear,” “Macbeth,” and “Othello.” These works have been translated into every major living language and are performed more frequently than those of any other playwright.

The exact chronology of Shakespeare’s works remains a subject of scholarly debate, but it is widely accepted that he began his career in the late 1580s. His earliest plays, such as “Henry VI” and “Richard III,” established his reputation as a history playwright. Shakespeare’s later works, including his famous tragedies and comedies, reflect a more mature style, marked by an unparalleled understanding of human nature and a keen wit.

Shakespeare’s contribution to the theatre is vast. His works have had a profound influence on the development of drama, language, and literature, shaping the course of English theatre for centuries. He introduced new dramatic techniques, expanded the vocabulary of the English language, and created complex, multidimensional characters. Shakespeare’s enduring popularity attests to the universal appeal of his themes, which continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

SHAW, George Bernard

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | BRITISH THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) was a prolific Irish playwright, critic, and polemicist, renowned for his wit and contribution to modern English drama. Born in Dublin, Shaw moved to London in 1876, where he developed a career in journalism and became an influential theatre critic.

Shaw’s dramatic work began with a series of unsuccessful plays, but his fortunes changed with the production of ‘Widowers’ Houses’ (1892). As a playwright, he is best known for his ‘Plays Pleasant and Unpleasant’ (1898), ‘Man and Superman’ (1903), ‘Major Barbara’ (1905), ‘The Doctor’s Dilemma’ (1906), ‘Pygmalion’ (1913), and ‘Saint Joan’ (1923). With a keen wit and keen intellect, Shaw addressed social issues, political ideologies, and the nature of human relationships in his plays. He was a prominent member of the Fabian Society, advocating for social reform and socialism.

Shaw’s ‘Pygmalion’ is among his most famous works, later adapted into the musical ‘My Fair Lady’ (1956). His plays often feature strong female characters and challenge prevailing social norms. Shaw was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925, recognising his outstanding contribution to drama and his ability to inspire thought and provoke debate.

Shaw’s influence on modern theatre is extensive, with his innovations in stagecraft and his exploration of complex moral dilemmas shaping the development of 20th-century drama.

SHEPARD, Sam

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | ACTOR | AMERICAN THEATRE | CONTEMPORARY THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

Sam Shepard (b. Samuel Shepard Rogers III, 5 November 1943 – d. 27 July 2017) was an esteemed American playwright and actor who significantly influenced contemporary theatre. Born in Fort Sheridan, Illinois, Shepard studied agriculture at Mount San Antonio College before pursuing his passion for the arts. In the 1960s, he moved to New York City and started his career as a playwright with the Theatre Genesis.

Shepard’s innovative works combined surrealist elements with American themes and motifs, earning him critical acclaim. Throughout his career, he wrote over 40 plays, with notable works including “Buried Child” (1978), for which he received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “Curse of the Starving Class” (1978), “True West” (1980), and “Fool for Love” (1983). These plays often explored the complexities of family relationships, the decline of the American Dream, and the disintegration of traditional values.

In addition to his contributions to theatre, Shepard was a prolific actor with over 50 film and television credits. His most notable role was Chuck Yeager in “The Right Stuff” (1983), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He also authored several books, including collections of short stories and essays.

SHERIDAN, Richard Brinsley

18TH CENTURY THEATRE | BRITISH THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751-1816) was an influential Irish playwright, poet, and politician, renowned for his significant contributions to British theatre during the 18th century. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Sheridan displayed a talent for the written word from a young age. He attended Harrow School in London, where he honed his writing skills, and later embarked on a distinguished career as a playwright.

Sheridan’s first play, “The Rivals” (1775), gained immediate acclaim for its wit and satire, securing his reputation as a leading dramatist. This was followed by “The Duenna” (1775), a comic opera that became one of the most successful productions of the era. However, it was his play “The School for Scandal” (1777) that cemented Sheridan’s status as a preeminent playwright of Georgian England. The work masterfully combines farce, wit, and social commentary, showcasing Sheridan’s exceptional talent for crafting engaging dialogue.

In 1776, Sheridan became a co-owner and manager of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, which allowed him to foster the development of British theatre. Under his leadership, the theatre flourished, staging numerous works by well-known playwrights, including William Shakespeare, and promoting theatrical talent of the period.

SIMON, Neil

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | AMERICAN THEATRE | BROADWAY | PLAYWRIGHT

Neil Simon (1927-2018) was a distinguished American playwright and screenwriter, celebrated for his prolific contribution to theatre and cinema. Born in the Bronx, New York, Simon developed a passion for writing from a young age. He gained prominence in the 1960s, shaping American theatre with his unique blend of humour and emotional resonance.

Simon wrote more than 30 plays and nearly the same number of screen adaptations during his career, which spanned over six decades. Among his most notable works are the semi-autobiographical trilogy consisting of “Brighton Beach Memoirs” (1983), “Biloxi Blues” (1985), and “Broadway Bound” (1986). His comedies “The Odd Couple” (1965) and “Barefoot in the Park” (1963) were also highly acclaimed, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the world of theatre.

Simon’s works were celebrated for their wit, relatable characters, and emotional depth, often drawing from his own experiences. His plays were characterised by an engaging balance of comedy and drama, appealing to a wide audience.

Throughout his career, Simon received numerous awards and accolades, including three Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama for “Lost in Yonkers” (1991). He was also the recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors in 1995, in recognition of his significant impact on American culture.

SLADE, Peter

20TH CENTURY DRAMA EDUCATOR | BRITISH THEATRE

Peter Slade (1912–1990) was a British pioneer in the field of drama education who made significant contributions to the development of child drama and creative education. Born in Northampton, England, he trained as a teacher and began his career teaching children with special needs. It was during this time that he discovered the power of drama as an educational tool.

Slade’s groundbreaking work in the 1940s and 1950s established the foundation for modern drama education in the UK and beyond. His seminal publication, ‘Child Drama’ (1954), laid the groundwork for child-centred drama pedagogy, advocating for the importance of play and creativity in children’s learning. Slade believed that children’s spontaneous dramatic play was the key to unlocking their natural creativity, communication skills, and emotional growth.

In 1957, Slade founded the Birmingham School of Speech and Drama, which became a centre for innovative approaches to drama education. He also played a crucial role in the formation of the National Association of Youth Drama (now National Association of Youth Theatres) in the UK in 1964, which aims to promote and support youth theatre and drama opportunities.

Slade’s pioneering work has had a lasting impact on the field of drama education, influencing generations of educators, practitioners, and theorists.

SONDHEIM, Stephen

Stephen Sondheim (1930-2021) was a renowned American composer and lyricist, celebrated for his extraordinary contributions to musical theatre. Born in New York City on 22 March 1930, Sondheim began his career as a protégé of Oscar Hammerstein II, who would greatly influence his artistic development. He studied at Williams College and later received his Bachelor of Arts degree in music from the institution in 1950.

Sondheim’s first major success came in 1957 as the lyricist for “West Side Story,” a reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” set in 1950s New York. He continued to collaborate with other leading figures in theatre, including Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins, which led to further successes like “Gypsy” (1959) and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (1962).

Sondheim’s innovative approach to musical theatre, with its sophisticated music and character-driven storytelling, is best exemplified by a string of groundbreaking productions, such as “Company” (1970), “Follies” (1971), “A Little Night Music” (1973), “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” (1979), “Sunday in the Park with George” (1984), and “Into the Woods” (1987). These works showcase his mastery of intricate melodies, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sondheim garnered numerous accolades, including eight Tony Awards, an Academy Award, eight Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and the Olivier Award for Lifetime Achievement.

SOPHOCLES

GREEK THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

Sophocles (c. 497/6 BCE – 406/5 BCE) was an ancient Greek playwright and one of the most prominent tragedians of his era. Born in Colonus, a village near Athens, he significantly contributed to the development of Athenian drama and the Classical period of theatre. As a central figure in the evolution of tragedy, Sophocles is remembered for his artistic mastery and innovative techniques, which enriched the genre and left a lasting impact on Western literature.

Sophocles penned more than 120 plays during his lifetime, though only seven complete works have survived: “Ajax,” “Antigone,” “Women of Trachis,” “Oedipus Rex,” “Electra,” “Philoctetes,” and “Oedipus at Colonus.” His work frequently explored complex human emotions, moral dilemmas, and the tragic consequences of flawed decision-making. Sophocles’ plays were deeply rooted in Greek mythology and addressed themes that remain relevant today, such as family, fate, and free will.

Sophocles is credited with several innovations in theatre, including the introduction of a third actor, which allowed for more dynamic character interactions and plot development. He also expanded the role of the chorus, developing it into a more integral component of the performance. These innovations enhanced the dramatic structure and contributed to the rich theatrical tradition of ancient Greece.

In his time, Sophocles’ work was widely acclaimed, and he won numerous first-place victories at the prestigious Athenian dramatic festivals, such as the Dionysia and Lenaea.

SPOLIN, Viola

20TH CENTURY DRAMA EDUCATOR | DIRECTOR | IMPROVISATIONAL THEATRE | THEATRE GAMES

Viola Spolin (b. 7 November 1906 – d. 22 November 1994) was an influential American theatre educator, director, and author. She is best known for her pioneering work in improvisational theatre and her development of theatre games, which have made an indelible impact on the world of drama and theatre pedagogy.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Spolin’s fascination with theatre began in her youth. She studied under Neva Boyd, a prominent social worker and educator, at Hull House, where she acquired the foundation for her innovative ideas in theatre. In the 1940s, Spolin worked with her son, Paul Sills, to establish the Young Actors Company, which later became the Compass Players, an influential improvisational theatre group. These two ventures ultimately paved the way for the renowned Second City theatre company in Chicago.

Spolin’s most significant contribution to theatre was her development of theatre games, a series of exercises designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and spontaneity. Her seminal work, “Improvisation for the Theatre” (1963), has become a standard text in theatre education, widely recognised for its innovative approach to teaching and learning the art of improvisation.

Throughout her career, Spolin travelled extensively, conducting workshops and training a generation of actors and teachers in her groundbreaking methods. Her work has influenced numerous theatre practitioners and ensembles, including Keith Johnstone, Augusto Boal, and the Living Theatre. Today, Viola Spolin is celebrated as a trailblazer in the field of improvisational theatre, and her legacy continues to inform and inspire actors, directors, and educators worldwide.

STANISLAVSKI, Konstantin

Konstantin Stanislavski (1863-1938) was a pioneering Russian theatre practitioner, actor, and director who significantly influenced the development of modern theatre, particularly in the area of acting.

Stanislavski co-founded the Moscow Art Theatre (MAT) in 1898 with Vladimir Nemirovich-Danchenko, where they staged numerous groundbreaking productions, including the works of Anton Chekhov and Maxim Gorky. MAT rapidly gained international acclaim for its innovative approach to staging and acting, fostering a unique creative environment that allowed for the development of Stanislavski’s ideas.

Stanislavski’s most enduring contribution to world theatre is his “System,” which later evolved into “Method Acting” in the United States. It is a comprehensive approach to actor training that aims to cultivate emotional authenticity and psychological realism on stage. Key components of his System include emotional memory, relaxation, concentration, and the “Magic If,” which encourages actors to explore how they would respond to their character’s circumstances.

Throughout his lifetime, Stanislavski authored several influential texts, including “An Actor Prepares” (1936), “Building a Character” (1949), and “Creating a Role” (1961). These works form the basis of his teachings and have been widely adopted in actor training programmes worldwide.

STEPHENS, Simon

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | BRITISH DRAMA EDUCATOR | CONTEMPORARY THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

Simon Stephens (b. 1971, Stockport, Greater Manchester, England) is a distinguished British playwright and educator, whose prolific body of work has made a significant impact on contemporary theatre both nationally and internationally. Stephens graduated from the University of York with a degree in History and pursued a career in teaching before transitioning to playwriting.

Stephens first gained recognition with his debut play, “Bluebird” (1998), which showcased his empathetic and honest approach to storytelling. He has since written numerous critically acclaimed plays, including “Port” (2002), “On the Shore of the Wide World” (2005), and “Punk Rock” (2009). In 2013, Stephens achieved widespread international acclaim with his adaptation of Mark Haddon’s novel, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” which garnered several prestigious awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play in 2015.

Stephens’s work is characterised by its authentic portrayal of working-class life, exploration of complex emotions, and incorporation of timely socio-political themes. He is also known for his collaborations with innovative theatre-makers such as director Katie Mitchell, and his affinity for adapting the works of other writers, including Anton Chekhov and Henrik Ibsen.

STOPPARD, Tom

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | BRITISH THEATRE | CONTEMPORARY THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

Sir Tom Stoppard OM CBE FRSL (born Tomáš Straussler, 3 July 1937) is a Czech-born British playwright and screenwriter, celebrated for his significant contributions to theatre. Known for his linguistic playfulness, philosophical depth, and intellectual sophistication, Stoppard has been a leading figure in British and international theatre since the 1960s. He rose to prominence with his play “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” (1966), an absurdist tragicomedy exploring existential themes and the nature of reality through Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” characters.

Stoppard’s prolific body of work encompasses an array of genres and styles, including historical drama, comedy, and the Theatre of the Absurd. His plays often engage with political, moral, and social issues, as evidenced by “Jumpers” (1972), “Travesties” (1974), and “The Coast of Utopia” (2002), a trilogy examining the lives of Russian intellectuals. “Arcadia” (1993), one of his most acclaimed works, intertwines historical and modern storylines, exploring the nature of knowledge, science, and human relationships.

Throughout his career, Stoppard has garnered numerous awards, including four Tony Awards, an Academy Award for his screenplay “Shakespeare in Love” (1998)

STRASBERG, Lee

Lee Strasberg (1901-1982) was a preeminent American theatre director, actor, and educator, best known for his significant contribution to the development of the Method acting technique. Born Israel Strassberg in Budaniv, Austria-Hungary (now Ukraine), Strasberg emigrated to the United States with his family in 1909, settling in New York City.

In 1925, Strasberg joined the Group Theatre, where he developed his acting and directing skills. Heavily influenced by Russian theatre practitioner Konstantin Stanislavski, Strasberg synthesised his own interpretation of Stanislavski’s system, forming the foundation of the Method. The Method emphasised emotional authenticity, encouraging actors to draw from their own experiences to create believable characters.

In 1948, Strasberg became a director at the Actors Studio, an influential organisation providing a creative environment for actors, directors, and playwrights. Under Strasberg’s leadership, the Studio emerged as a prominent force in American theatre and cinema, fostering the talents of numerous renowned actors, including Marlon Brando, James Dean, and Marilyn Monroe.

Strasberg’s Method acting techniques gained worldwide recognition, revolutionising the craft and influencing generations of actors and educators. Though his approach sometimes drew criticism for its potential psychological impact on actors, Strasberg’s legacy endures as a pivotal figure in 20th-century theatre. In addition to his work at the Actors Studio, Strasberg co-founded the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in 1969, further cementing his impact on the world of performing arts.

STREEP, Meryl

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | ACTOR | AMERICAN THEATRE | METHOD ACTING

Meryl Streep (b. 1949) is an acclaimed American actress, renowned for her versatile and transformative performances across stage and screen. Born in Summit, New Jersey, Streep developed a passion for acting while studying at Vassar College and later at the Yale School of Drama.

Streep’s career took flight in the 1970s with her debut on the Broadway stage in “Trelawny of the ‘Wells'” (1975). Her film breakthrough came with her role in “The Deer Hunter” (1978), which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Streep’s exceptional portrayal of Joanna Kramer in “Kramer vs. Kramer” (1979) won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, establishing her as a leading figure in American cinema.

In addition to her work in film, Streep has made significant contributions to theatre. She has appeared in numerous stage productions, including Shakespeare in the Park performances and the Broadway revival of “A Delicate Balance” (1996).

Throughout her illustrious career, Streep has garnered numerous accolades, holding the record for the most Academy Award nominations received by an actor (21 nominations, with three wins). Her extensive filmography includes celebrated works such as “Sophie’s Choice” (1982), “The Iron Lady” (2011), and “The Post” (2017).

STRINDBERG, August

19TH CENTURY THEATRE | 20TH CENTURY THEATRE | EUROPEAN THEATRE | NATURALISM | PLAYWRIGHT

August Strindberg (1849-1912) was a pioneering Swedish playwright, novelist, and essayist whose innovative works and profound influence on modern drama firmly established him as a leading figure in European theatre. Born in Stockholm, Strindberg initially pursued a career in medicine, but his burgeoning passion for literature led him to redirect his focus. His early plays, rooted in Naturalism, challenged conventional theatrical norms and introduced new psychological depth to characterisation.

Strindberg’s best-known work, “Miss Julie” (1888), is a prime example of his Naturalist style, depicting the tragic consequences of societal constraints and the struggle for power between genders. In this period, he also authored “The Father” (1887), which similarly scrutinised the fraught dynamics of a family in crisis.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Strindberg’s artistic vision evolved, marking a departure from Naturalism to a more experimental and symbolic approach. This shift gave birth to his ‘Chamber Plays’ and his association with the Intimate Theatre in Stockholm. These works, including “The Ghost Sonata” (1907), explored universal themes and the metaphysical aspects of existence, reflecting Strindberg’s own spiritual and existential turmoil.

SUZUKI, Tadashi

20TH CENTURY ACTING THEORIST | DIRECTOR | JAPANESE THEATRE | SUZUKI METHOD

Tadashi Suzuki (born 1939, Shimizu, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan) is a prominent Japanese theatre director, playwright, and theorist who has greatly contributed to the development of contemporary world theatre. Suzuki is best known as the founder of the Suzuki Company of Toga (SCOT) and the creator of the Suzuki Method of Actor Training, which has been widely adopted by theatre practitioners globally.

Suzuki began his career in the 1960s as a co-founder of the Waseda Shogekijo theatre company, where he directed several critically acclaimed productions. In 1976, he established the SCOT in the remote mountain village of Toga, creating a unique environment for theatrical exploration and experimentation. SCOT became a hub for international theatre collaborations and the annual Toga Festival, which has attracted artists from around the world since its inception.

The Suzuki Method, which he developed in the 1970s and 1980s, is a rigorous physical training system that emphasises the actor’s relationship with the ground, focusing on the lower body and cultivating a strong centre of gravity. This method has been instrumental in shaping a new generation of performers and theatre practitioners who strive for a highly disciplined and expressive form of physicality on stage.

Suzuki’s contributions to theatre extend beyond his training methodology, as his thought-provoking productions often challenge traditional theatrical conventions and explore complex themes, such as cultural identity, globalisation, and the nature of power.

SYNGE, John Millington

20TH CENTURY THEATRE | IRISH THEATRE | PLAYWRIGHT

John Millington Synge (1871-1909) was an influential Irish playwright, poet, and prose writer, whose work significantly impacted the Irish Literary Revival and the development of modern Irish theatre. Born on 16th April 1871 in Rathfarnham, County Dublin, Synge was educated at private schools in Dublin and later at Trinity College, where he studied literature and languages.

Synge’s association with the Irish National Theatre Society, which later became the Abbey Theatre, was a defining factor in his career. Encouraged by W.B. Yeats, Synge moved to the Aran Islands in 1898 and immersed himself in the local culture and language, drawing inspiration from the landscape and the people. This experience heavily influenced his literary style and thematic focus.

Synge’s most notable plays include “The Shadow of the Glen” (1903), “Riders to the Sea” (1904), “The Well of the Saints” (1905), “The Playboy of the Western World” (1907), and “The Tinker’s Wedding” (1908). His works, characterised by a blend of poetic language, rural settings, and dark humour, often explored themes of Irish identity, social conditions, and the human struggle against nature.

“The Playboy of the Western World” sparked controversy and riots due to its portrayal of Irish rural life and the perceived defamation of Irish womanhood, but it remains one of Synge’s most enduring works.

Theatre Practitioners: 150 of Theatre’s Most Influential People - The Drama Teacher (2024)