Over the last forty years, French director Ariane Mnouchkine and her theater collective, Le Th¿re du Soleil, have devised a form of research and creation that is both engaged with contemporary history and committed to reinvigorating theater by focusing on the actor. Now revised and reissued, this volume combines: ¿ an overview of Mnouchkine¿s life, work and theatrical influences ¿ an exploration of her key ideas on theater and the creative process ¿ analysis of key productions, including her early and groundbreaking environmental political piece, 1789 , and the later Asian-inspired play penned by H¿ne Cixous, Drums on the Dam . ¿ practical exercises, including tips on mask work. As a first step toward critical understanding, and as an initial exploration before going on to further, primary research, Routledge Performance Practitioners offer unbeatable value for today¿s student.