Caridad Svich Libri

In a series of interviews with fifty playwrights from the US and UK, this book offers a fascinating study of the voices, thoughts, and opinions of today's most important dramatists. Filled with probing questions, Fifty Playwrights on their Craft explores ideas such as how does playwriting help a global dialogue; where do dramatists find the ideas that become the stories and narratives within their plays; how can the stage inform the writer's creative process; how does crossing boundaries between art forms push the living art form of theatre-making forward; and will there be playwrights in another 50 years? Through these interrogating interviews we come to understand how and why playwrights write what they do and gain insight into their processes and motivations. Together, the interviews provide an inter-generational dialogue between dramatists whose work spans over six decades. Featuring interviews with playwrights such as Edward Bond, Katori Hall, Chris Goode, David Greig, Willy Russell, David Henry Hwang, Alecky Blythe, Anne Washburn and Simon Stephens, Jester and Svich offer an unprecedented view into the multiple perspectives and approaches of key playwrights on both sides of the Atlantic.

'... love creates something that was not there before.' - Hedwig John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's Hedwig and the Angry Inch opened on Valentine's Day,1998, in New York City, and ever since, it and its genderqueer heroine have captivated audiences around the world. As the first musical to feature a genderqueer protagonist as its lead, the show has had an extraordinary life on film, Broadway and in the music field. A glam rock musical with a complex relationship to issues related to art, eroticism and matters of identity formation, Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a darkly exuberant fairy tale about a child that discovers she is one of a kind, but also potentially among her own kind, if she dares travel past borders that confine and try to stabilise her being and identity. Caridad Svich examines this exhilarating work through the lenses of visual and vocal rock 'n' roll performance, the history of the American musical, and its positioning within LGBTIQ+ theatre.

Set in a dusty Texas town, the play follows single mom Roly and her encounter with Guapa, a talented young athlete determined to become a soccer star. Guapa's arrival disrupts Roly's life and those around her, challenging them to overcome their doubts and embrace their dreams. The narrative explores themes of ambition, family dynamics, and the struggle for self-belief against societal expectations. Recognized for its impact, the play has garnered accolades, including a rolling world premiere and a prestigious new play award.

Exploring themes of displacement and resilience, this trilogy of plays delves into the lives of individuals navigating the harsh realities of ruin, war, and exile. Caridad Svich's poignant storytelling captures the complexities of human experience, blending boldness with tenderness in each piece. The collection offers a profound reflection on the struggles and triumphs of those who find themselves adrift in challenging circumstances.

Exploring themes of longing and connection, this play weaves together the journeys of those who traverse vast distances and those left behind. It features a lover's quest for a lost companion and a character named Penelope, who may be awaiting her Odysseus. The narrative unfolds through a rich tapestry of poetry, song, film, and dance, inviting audiences to embrace their dreams. Originally commissioned by the University of Missouri-Columbia, it showcases a unique blend of artistic expressions.

Exploring themes of desire, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, this collection features "The Little Hours" alongside other compelling plays by Caridad Svich. The works delve into the intricacies of everyday life, blending humor with poignant reflections. Svich's unique voice and innovative storytelling invite audiences to navigate the emotional landscapes of her characters, making each play a rich tapestry of contemporary experiences. This collection is a testament to her ability to capture the essence of modern existence through theater.

Exploring themes of identity and loss, Caridad Svich's two horizon plays delve into the complexities of personal and cultural narratives. "Prodigal Kiss" navigates the emotional landscape of relationships and reconciliation, while "Perdita Gracia" examines the intersections of memory and belonging. Through rich character development and poignant dialogue, Svich crafts powerful stories that resonate with the experiences of US Latina voices, inviting audiences to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and connection.

Jenna's unexpected job loss after two decades propels her on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Supported and challenged by her friends, she embarks on an exploration of memory and identity, creating a map of her true self. This play delves into the experiences of "invisible women" in Western society, highlighting their struggles within the confines of late capitalism. Through Jenna's story, the narrative examines themes of resilience and the quest for personal meaning amidst societal pressures.

Set in the last house in the world, two women navigate the complexities of life, love, and memory. As they engage in everyday activities like eating and conversing, their identities and realities start to fade, leaving behind a raw sense of desire. This poignant play, shaped through various esteemed theatrical workshops, explores themes of existence and connection, inviting audiences to reflect on what remains when familiarity slips away.

Focusing on human rights and environmental challenges, this play weaves together seven interlocking stories from various countries, including the U.S., Nigeria, and Syria. With fourteen characters portrayed by just four actors, it delves into themes of tragedy, hope, and identity, prompting reflection on the impact of human-made disasters. The narrative invites the audience to engage in a collective conversation about resilience and the shared human experience on our fragile planet.