Subject
Theaters -- Stage-setting and scenery Books
Best books
Kenneth Macgowan
Continental stagecraft
"Continental Stagecraft" by Kenneth Macgowan is a treatise on theatrical techniques and observations, written in the early 20th century. The work documents the author's experiences and insights gained from extensive travels through the theaters of continental Europe, focusing primarily on France, Germany, and Austria. It delves into the evolution of stagecraft, the impact of realism and expressionism on theater, and the principles that govern modern theatrical productions. The opening of "Continental Stagecraft" sets the stage for an exploration of the dynamic landscape of European theater in the 1920s. After a brief preface, the author introduces his journey through various theaters, emphasizing how the trip across several countries provided a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. As he confronts the tension between realism and expressionism, Macgowan opens a dialogue about how contemporary theater can transcend traditional representational techniques. He hints at the significance of outer reality versus inner truth, presenting a nuanced view of the direction theater is taking and the need for a new theatrical language that resonates beyond mere realism.
Carl Van Vechten
Music after the great war, and other studies
"Music After the Great War" by Carl Van Vechten is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. This work explores the evolution of music in the aftermath of World War I, reflecting on various composers and styles, along with the cultural implications of these musical developments. The essays address prominent figures in music history and critique the future directions that art music may take following the war. At the start of the collection, Van Vechten discusses the transformative impact of the Great War on the world of art and music, arguing that traditional forms have become outdated and predicting a shift towards more primitive and disharmonic musical expressions. He provides insights into the thoughts of contemporary figures, like Leo Stein, and critiques the decline of German music while advocating for the potential of Russian and other new compositions. Van Vechten anticipates a post-war musical landscape that reflects the intensity of collective suffering and a movement away from established norms, highlighting composers like Igor Stravinsky as leading figures in this coming musical renaissance.
L. (Louis) Becq de Fouquières
L'art de la mise en scène: Essai d'esthétique théâtrale
"L'art de la mise en scène: Essai d'esthétique théâtrale" by L. Becq de Fouquières is an analytical treatise on theatrical aesthetics written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the complexities of stage direction, its relationship with dramatic art, and the principles that govern effective representation in theatre. The opening of the work introduces the subject of mise en scène, asserting that it is an integral yet often overlooked component of theatrical art. The author outlines a clear distinction between the roles of playwrights and directors, emphasizing that while playwrights create the script, stage directors bear the responsibility of bringing the text to life through careful attention to visual and dramatic elements. Becq de Fouquières notes the importance of collaborating with designers, understanding audience perspectives, and balancing visual effects with narrative integrity. He stresses that the true measure of a successful theatrical work lies not only in its representation but also in its lasting impact and intrinsic value, challenging the notion that popularity equates to artistic merit.
Will Goldston
Secrets of scene painting and stage effects
"Secrets of scene painting and stage effects by Will Goldston" is a practical guidebook on theatrical scenography and stagecraft written in the early 20th century. Aimed especially at amateurs and small companies, it explains how to plan, paint, build, rig, and light scenery, and how to create convincing stage effects. The book opens by stressing scenery’s role in realism, offers a brief history of staging from the Greeks to movable scenery, and then provides step‑by‑step instruction on materials (flax canvas, sizing, distemper paints), brushes, priming, sketching, mixing colors for light and shadow, and safe fireproofing. It teaches scaling a sketch to full size, simple rules of perspective for interiors and streets, and practical design choices for cottages, halls, and landscapes, including stenciling and color schemes. Clear guidance follows on handling scenery—back cloths, flats, braces, and wings—plus building a portable platform and stage with curtain and rigging. Lighting with limelight and gels is outlined, and a large section details sound and weather effects: horses’ hoofbeats, thunder sheets, rain boxes, wind machines, snow cloths, rippling water, and compact mechanical devices for cinemas. Throughout, it emphasizes broad, stage-true effects, careful timing, and efficient backstage practice.
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