This project explored the idea that classic theatrical texts ought to be staged in the ways with which we have become used to them being staged; how a dramaturgical approach to classic plays which values theatricality over realism can allow us to look at such plays with fresh eyes; and performative ways in which the subtexts of these plays might be made overt.

To do this, Edward Franklin recruited an ensemble of actors and theatre-makers who worked with him to explore several such texts: Miller’s All My Sons, Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler and Euripides’ Medea. Each of the plays are connected to a theatrical context: mid-century American realism, nineteenth century Naturalism and Greek tragedy. The ensemble explored to what extent these stylistic contexts are necessary and helpful in creating a production of these plays which speak to us today.