Monday, January 11, 2021
Theater and Democracy, born together, both now under attack.
New York Theater: Theater and democracy were born in the same place at the same time – in Athens 2,500 years ago — and that is no coincidence: One led to the other.
The creation of theater festivals in the 6th century BCE brought the four warring tribes of Athens into a common space to share a common experience, which engendered a new sense of unity, and of community.
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This is an incredibly apt article. It is horrible to see the state of our country. So many productions end with unity, I hope our country can find the same, but it is hard to have faith after seeing how aggressive and terrible people can be towards other people. I like that this article chronicles theater history, complete with some incredible iconic photos. I do really hope live theatre can return in the fall. I have not given as much thought to the partnership of theatre and the government, nor have I heard the term “political theatre”. I have always appreciated the art of escape with theatre. It is interesting to compare the government economically restoring theatre, and the act of theatre rescuing our democracy. I do hope both of these can be achieved. The incredibly well written article restored my hope for better in 2021 and beyond. I hope for the artists, the companies, the government, and the legacy we all leave behind.
-Ariel Bernhard
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