The British New Wave' of dramatists, actors and directors in the late 1950s and 1960s created a defining moment in post-war theatre. British Realist Theatre is an accessible introduction to the New Wave, providing the historical and cultural background which is essential for a true understanding of this influential and dynamic era.
Drawing upon contemporary sources as well as the plays themselves, Stephen Lacey considers the plays' influences, their impact and their critical receptions. The playwrights discussed include:
* Edward Bond
* John Osborne
* Shelagh Delaney * Harold Pinter

Stephen Lacey is a Lecturer in Drama at the University of Reading. He has worked extensively in community theatre in Scotland and England.

INTRODUCTION 1 REPRESENTING CONTEMPORARY BRITAIN: ANGER, AFFLUENCE AND HEGEMONY 2 INSTITUTIONS AND AUDIENCES 3 REALISM, CLASS AND CULTURE 4 'BEYOND NATURALISM PURE': REALISM, NATURALISM AND THE NEW WAVE 5 REDEFINING REALISM 6 THE TWO NEW WAVES: REALISM IN THEATRE AND FILM; IN CONCLUSION: THE 1960S-NEW DEFINITIONS OF 'WHAT BRITAIN IS LIKE'.