While reading my Great Depression AP United States History assignment, I came across a paragraph I think you all will enjoy.
"The Federal Theatre Program (FTP), under the direction of the dynamic Hallie Flanagan of Vassar College, reached as many as 30 million Americans with its productions. The FTP sought to expand the audience for theater beyond the regular patrons of the commercial stage. Tickets for its productions were cheap, and it made a variety of dramatic forms available. Among its most successful productions were the "Living Newspaper" plays based on contemporary controversies and current events." (Out of Many: Revised Third Edition)
Perhaps the most important component of the FTP was its attitude. Often times the organization came under social critic for being too "radical". Flanagan defended her vision of theater, claiming that the reason why politics are woven into the performances is because politics is woven into everyday American life.
I find it fascinating to read a tidbit on the history of advocacy, and continuing to understand the importance theater has had on the past, present, and future.
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Alex Minton
Nebraska Thespian State Board Member
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