Description:
The study provides new insights into the development of contemporary theatre in Lebanon. Focusing on selected stage works by Rabih Mroué (b. 1967) and Hisham Jaber (b. 1980), the author presents a thorough analysis which draws on current theoretical approaches. She is thereby able to furnish an illuminating definition of the politics of this theatre: although still concerned with critically reflecting on the civil war and a society fragmented by inner conflict, its real political substance is to be found in its form of representation rather than specific content. Mroué and Jaber challenge the self-reflection and participation of the critical individual by placing the audience at the centre of their attention. By adopting the very same innovative perspective on the audience, the study also succeeds in linking it to recent trends in international theatre.
