Arthur Miller's Remarks on today's American Theater

posted by Vijay Mathew

Here's an excerpt of Arthur Miller being interviewed by Charlie Rose in 1992. Miller gives his opinion of what defines and distinguishes "giant" playwrights from the others and why the current situation in American theater can no longer support new, great playwrights.

Do you agree with his definition of a great playwright and with his view on today's theater culture? Post your comments here.

Comments

[DBQ]

I think Miller's idea of what distinguishes a "giant" playwright from others is interesting because it can also be applied to many mediums of art. When he says fierce moral sensibility, I beleive he is not only speaking about the sense of being an outcast, but also about a fierce dedication to expressing that sensibility.

And I agree with his remarks on the state of American Theater. After spending a semester in London a few years ago, I was very disappointed about the lack of variety and accessibility of theatre here. It has since changed, I believe, in the DC area in the past 3 years or so. People do want to see plays and talk about them. Unfortunatly, the young, culture-hungry, intellectually curious are the ones who can't really afford a $75 ticket, or justify it for that matter.

[Beth]

will there be a free preview of this show too?

[Vijay Mathew]

There may be an open dress rehearsal for "View from the Bridge" next Thursday, March 20. Call the Sales/Subscription Office: (202) 488-3300 on Thursday afternoon to find out. There are also $10 tickets available for all performances for those 30 years old and younger as well as other discounts:
http://arenastage.org/tickets/single-tickets/savings.shtml