Josef Svoboda and the World Theatre Season

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article considers the work of Josef Svoboda in relation to the World Theatre Season (WTS), an annual season of international theatre companies presented at the Aldwych Theatre in London between 1964 and 1975. The WTS provided an initial platform for Svoboda's work in London, when WTS Director Peter Daubeny invited the Czech National Theatre to open the 1966 season with their production of The Insect Play (Ze života hmyzu), by Karel and Josef Čapek. The article provides a detailed historical analysis of The Insect Play, beginning with a production analysis and then tracing the production's material impact on scenography in the UK. First, the article argues that Svoboda's use of form and materials, as well as the spirit with which he approached his work, influenced the work of leading designer, Ralph Koltai. Second, the article demonstrates how The Insect Play functioned as a springboard for Svoboda's subsequent work on UK stages. Third, the article demonstrates how Svoboda's work gave weight to design, helping to foster the UK's design community. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that The Insect Play played a pivotal role in shaping Svoboda's career trajectory on UK stages and had a significant influence on British performance design.