Performing the American frontier, 1870-1906
By: Roger A. Hall.
Series: Cambridge studies in American theatre and drama
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 2001
Place of publication: Cambridge, UK ; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 281
Subjects: American drama -- 19th century -- History and criticism.; Frontier and pioneer life in literature.; American drama -- 20th century -- History and criticism.; American drama -- West (U.S.) -- History and criticism.; Pioneers in literature.; West (U.S.) -- In literature.
Description: "Performing the American Frontier 1870-1906 examines how the American frontier was presented in theatrical productions during the critical period from the end of the Civil War to the beginning of cinema. In chronological fashion, the book explores the post-Civil War resurgence of interest in drama about the frontier, which led to a host of action-packed melodramas. From famous personages such as Mark Twain and "Buffalo Bill" Cody to lesser-known individuals such as Native American playwright and actress Gowongo Mohawk, Hall examines the plays, the players, and the playwrights who helped to define the American westward migration in theatrical terms and covers the complete dramatic experience including scenery, performance, and staging.

The book demonstrates the extraordinary variety of subject matter and theatrical styles used to dramatize the frontier, and places frontier drama within the context of its society by framing the productions with the contemporary debates on national policies."--Jacket.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 254-262) and index.