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Theatre in Scotland: A Field of Dreams
£14.99
A panoramic, frontline history of modern Scottish theatre — its artists, its politics, its triumphs, and its cultural transformation.
Three decades of Scottish theatre seen through the eyes of one of its most essential critics, Joyce McMillan.
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About the Ebook
Theatre in Scotland: A Field of Dreams is a sweeping, deeply insightful account of Scottish theatre’s remarkable evolution over the past thirty years. Written by Joyce McMillan — one of Scotland’s most respected critics — and edited by theatre director Philip Howard, this collection charts the cultural, political and artistic renaissance that reshaped Scotland’s stages.
As drama critic for The Guardian, Scotland on Sunday and The Scotsman, McMillan has reviewed thousands of productions. Her writing captures the energy and ambition of a nation discovering its theatrical voice — from the road to Glasgow’s 1990 European Capital of Culture year, through the explosive creativity of the 1990s, to the founding of the National Theatre of Scotland and its mission to bring theatre to every corner of the country.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Profiles of leading Scottish playwrights — John Byrne, Liz Lochhead, David Greig, David Harrower and more
- Reflections on landmark Scottish plays, from Ane Satyre of the Thrie Estaitis and Men Should Weep to Black Watch and The James Plays
- Reports from theatres across Scotland — urban, rural and festival stages
- Insight into the cultural forces shaping Scottish identity and artistic expression
- A vivid portrait of a nation told through its theatre
McMillan’s writing reveals not only the story of Scottish theatre, but the story of Scotland itself — its politics, its people, and its evolving sense of who it is and who it might become.
Critical Praise
"A superb collection… McMillan's impassioned ability to contextualise the work makes this book essential for anyone interested in theatre or contemporary political history." — Drama Magazine
"A wonderful book… hugely enjoyable and of artistic, sociological and political relevance… McMillan’s spirit shines through: erudite, curious, generous and passionate."— Bella Caledonia
"A very valuable resource… an important book, an invaluable reference work and a jolly good read."— The Herald
"A stimulating and excellent work… covering the most exhilarating and fruitful period in Scottish theatre’s history."— Scottish Review of Books
"Our most essential voice on the artform and its relationship to our social and political landscape… expertly edited."— The Skinny
"Fascinating… a detailed and eclectic picture of how Scottish theatre and Scottish life have changed over three decades."— The Stage
"A worthy and most enjoyable collection."— British Theatre Guide
"An extraordinary range… vital to anyone seeking to understand Scotland’s cultural life in the last 30 years."— AllEdinburghTheatre.com
Why You'll Love This Ebook
- A definitive history of modern Scottish theatre from a frontline critic.
- Rich cultural insight into Scotland’s artistic and political evolution.
- Essential reading for theatre-makers, students, historians and anyone passionate about Scottish culture.
- A vivid portrait of the artists, companies and movements that shaped a nation’s stages.
- A Nick Hern Books landmark — expansive, thoughtful and deeply engaging.
About the Author
Joyce McMillan is one of Scotland’s leading theatre critics and cultural commentators. Over more than three decades, her writing has shaped public understanding of Scottish theatre and its place within the nation’s political and social landscape. Her work is celebrated for its clarity, insight and passionate advocacy for the arts.
Philip Howard, editor of this volume, is a theatre director and former Artistic Director of Dundee Rep and the Traverse Theatre, bringing deep knowledge of Scotland’s theatrical ecosystem to the project.
Publication Details
Publisher: Nick Hern Books
Publication Date: 23 June 2016
Print Length: 432 pages
ISBN (Ebook): 9781780017884
Format: Ebook
Language: English
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