An analysis of Maurice Browne's directing theories and practices with the Chicago Little Theatre.

Abstract

Maurice Browne established the Chicago Little Theatre February 16, 1911. With minimal theatre experience Browne produced plays using new stagecraft unknown in America. Drawing inspiration from Lady Gregory and the writings of Gordon Craig, Browne developed and realized his dramatic theory. The purpose of this dissertation is to discover and to evaluate Maurice Browne's innovative directing practices and theories as related to the Chicago Little Theatre. Most of the research was drawn from his personal writings such as his autobiography, Too Late To Lament, an article New Rhythmic Drama, and an unpublished manuscript "Spoken in Quite," and scrapbooks which covered the publicity and miscellaneous papers of the Chicago Little Theatre. The bulk of the research was located at the University of New Mexico. The paper begins with an overview of the development of the European independent theatres. A survey of the American theatre follows beginning with Augustin Daly. This background illustrates America's disregard for the new developments occurring in European theatres. Although there were a few minor attempts at the establishment of an American independent theatre, success was not achieved until the formulation of the Chicago Little Theatre. In order to fulfill this study's purpose an examination of Browne's theories of art, drama and theatre is required. An investigation of two productions follows: first, the Passion Play which was an original creation from a scenario to final production, second, The Trojan Women which culminated in a transcontinental tour bringing critical success to Browne. Finally, I will draw a comparison between his artistic theories and the above mentioned productions. In attempting to sum up Browne's work as a director he must be recognized for his achievements in bringing noncommercial dramatic literature to America, for focusing on production unity based on a unique dramatic theory, and for bringing to America the new statecraft. Browne left a legacy to the American theatre which has never been fully acknowledged.