BOOKS
The Evolution of Theatre and Drama in the Middle East
Cultural expressions of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have a rich tradition, communal narratives, and spiritual connectivity. This tapestry, distinct from the secular drama prevalent in Western cultures, is a unique blend of indigenous traditions and Western influences. This book introduces the rich and diverse theatrical practices developed and matured in the region from the nineteenth to twenty-first centuries.
An Anthology of
non-Western Drama
This anthology contains seven plays from India, China, Japan, Iran, Nigeria, Turkey, and Egypt; and they are placed into chronological periods - from ancient to modern times. This volume, drawn from a wide variety of forms and genres, demonstrates the richness and the diversity of both the traditional and modern non-Western theaters – from Sanskrit drama to contemporary African theater. For each country, there is a brief background of theater history that illustrates how cultural, religious, and political influences shaped the non-Western dramas.
BOOK REVIEWS & SCHOLARLY ENDORSEMENTS
The Evolution of Theatre and Drama in the Middle East and North Africa (Rowman & Littlefield)
"Ali Kiani's The Evolution of Theatre and Drama in the Middle East and North Africa fills a gap in contemporary scholarship on dramatic literature from this region and will help increase awareness of theatre and performance in all nations bordering the Mediterranean Sea."
— Dr. Ron Popenhagen, author of Modernist Disguise: Masquerade in Modern Performance and Visual Culture
"Kiani provides a much-needed overview of the development of drama and theater in the MENA region. Written in a clear, lively, and erudite style, this book reveals the vibrant variety of forms, strategies, and agendas that motivate and distinguish drama and theater across the vast region. This book is a fundamental resource for students and scholars of theatre history."
— Dr. Karl Toepfer, author of Empire of Ecstasy, professor emeritus,
Theatre Arts, San Jose State University
"The Evolution of Theatre and Drama in the Middle East and North Africa offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the theatrical traditions in this region. Kiani takes you beyond the illusion of perpetual political conflicts to a collage of cultural confluences where the nuances of diverse theatrical lore play and dance on every page of this extraordinary feat."
— Dr. Zaman Stanizai, professor of political science,
Islamic mysticism, and poetry at the Pacifica Graduate Institute
"Kiani offers invaluable insights into cultural contexts, historical influences, and contemporary theatre trends in the Middle East and North Africa. The book explores key figures, movements, and storytelling techniques in Middle Eastern theatre as a source of inspiration and reference for theatre practitioners everywhere. This book also stands out as a vital resource for theatre students and researchers of theatre history, focusing exclusively on MENA theatre—a significant area often overlooked in English-language theatre textbooks."
— Professor Sahar Assaf, executive artistic director,
Golden Thread Productions
"This is an indispensable exploration of cultural heritage and artistic expression within a region rich with history and diversity. A compelling resource for scholars, artists, and enthusiasts alike, it underscores the enduring significance of theatre as a reflection of human experience and a catalyst for dialogue and understanding."