Sanskrit Theatre and Stagecraft

Book Details:

• Author: E.W. Marasinghe

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1989

• ISBN: 9788170301769

• Pages: 570

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm

• Weight: 700 gm

About the Book:
This comprehensive study delves deep into the stagecraft of ancient Indian theatre, focusing specifically on the Sanskrit theatre. Spanning fourteen chapters, the book uncovers the intricacies of Sanskrit theatre production, with a detailed exploration of elements like the playhouse, the role of the curtain, dramatic preliminaries, music usage, character types, and various theatrical techniques. The author, E.W. Marasinghe, highlights the importance of these often-overlooked aspects to fully understand the physical staging of Sanskrit plays.

One of the book’s key arguments is the dispelling of the myth that Sanskrit theatre catered only to the nobility and royal courts. Marasinghe emphasizes that despite royal patronage, Sanskrit drama served as a form of popular entertainment for the masses throughout its history. The book offers a critical distinction between theatrical genres such as rilpaka and upargpaka forms in Chapter 13, providing a more refined understanding of Sanskrit theatre.

Why You Should Read This Book:

• Provides an in-depth study of Sanskrit theatre, focusing on theatrical techniques and the physical production of plays

• Corrects misconceptions about Sanskrit theatre being confined to the royal elite, showing its role in popular culture

• Detailed analysis of dramatic preliminaries, music, character types, and other essential aspects of theatre production

• Essential for scholars of Sanskrit drama, theatre arts, and Indian culture

• Comprehensive research based on the author’s doctoral thesis and years of study