Experimental Theatre

A recent program of The Experimental Theatre included a play by T. D. Donovan '30, "Your Presence is Requested," a satirical modernization of an old-time story, and a play called "El," presenting an expressionistic picture of life in New York as seen during an entire day by a person on a street corner under the El.

A play by J. W. Losey '29, selected as the third on the program, was withheld for later production because of the author's recent injury which prevents his participation.

"El," written by Leopold Atlas of the Yale School of Drama, was given according to the policy of the Experimental Theatre, because of its technical interest as a suggestive experiment in expressionism. It was effectively staged last year at the Yale Theatre. The scenes for the Dartmouth performance were designed by W. P. Hudson '29. The play required a large cast for the mob scenes.

The purpose of the experimental theatre, now in its third year, is to meet the need of a cooperative workshop in which student plays and other work of experimental interest may be produced before an audience whose interest is participatory and not merely that of attending an evening's entertainment.

Its method is that of most similar workshops in colleges and community centers, varied to meet the local needs. It is in no sense exclusive, but welcomes to its audience all students and members of the community who express a genuine interest in experimental aspects of drama and also a willingness to cooperate to the extent of writing criticisms of the original plays produced, or by taking part in the production work of acting or staging.

Students who have any interest in the mechanics of play producing or acting will find that the experimental theatre offers one an excellent opportunity for practical experience in all branches connected with the stage.

"DARTMOUTH HALL" Snow sculpture at the Phi Kappa Sigma House.