| This paper asks and answers the question "Who needs theatre?" In order to answer the question and understand the importance of theatre, one must search beyond the entertainment that it provides. This thesis first examines theatre as a 2500 year old art form, highlighting the significant periods that formed the foundation upon which contemporary theatre is built. The paper then explores the use of theatre in understanding cultural differences and working toward cultural sensitivity. It examines the use of theatre as a tool for educating; its interdisciplinarity; its therapeutic value. The paper also considers the use of theatre to provoke society. Through examples of classical, modern, and contemporary plays, the paper supports the answer that we all need theatre. It looks beyond the mask of entertainment, explaining theatre's role in society. |
