Joseph E. Mersand (1907–1981)

Works of the early 20th century bear some marks of similarity to more modern plays, but there are certain features that point to the earlier origin. First of all, long expository speeches, action reported that happened off stage, and a large cast, with many players in some cases having only a single line before they disappear. These plays are true to that mode (I don't mean any of these things as an insult; there was a lot more freedom in those days to do what you needed, even as there was less freedom in some aspects, such as the challenging of certain societal norms). Overall, these are solid, well-written works, but it's difficult to imagine anyone doing most of them today, especially Magnificent Yankee, because they are much more talkie than people want. That said, the ghosts and the surreal nature of the Maxwell Anderson work, High Tor, would fit right along some of the work being done today. It challenges boundaries and dares to invite the reader/viewer to dream. Some parts of it suggest there may have been some influence from A Midsummer Night's Dream.… (mais)