Contemporary American Drama: Socio-Political Aspect

Abstract

The article deals with the topical issues of American drama based on the analysis of works by contemporary US playwrights, many of whom are representatives of groups classified as oppressed (in a white patriarchal society). The author examines popular topics and trends in cultural life in the context of public and political life in the United States over the past 70 years - from the Civil Rights Movement, "Women's Liberation" and Stonewall to "Black Lives Matter", "#MeToo" and LGBTQ prides. The author concludes that the current repertoire was directly influenced by the progressive agenda with its ambitious plan for large-scale social transformations that affected all cultural institutions, including theater. By highlighting the struggle for social equality and justice, the rights of blacks, women, ethnic and sexual minorities, diversity and inclusion, as well as condemnation of capitalism and American imperialism, progressivism has placed art at the service of ideology, once again turning cultural figures into 'engineers of human souls' - but also contributed to the expansion of opportunities for members of under-represented groups, integration, the development of intercultural dialogue and the emergence of new dramatic voices.