The ideal world of Edmond Rostand's Cyrano de Bergerac : a director's approach.

Abstract

Edmond Rostand wrote Cyrano de Bergerac during a time when realism was beginning to assert its dominance over French theatre. Rostand’s masterpiece, with its neo-Romantic attributes, is often perceived as a reaction against the new theatrical movement as well as a celebration of France’s history. The play’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its emphasis on the ideal exemplified in the dynamic and heroic title character. This director’s approach to Cyrano de Bergerac examines the history behind the play including the playwright’s life, work, sources for the play, and its importance in fin-de-siècle France. A thorough analysis of the script and genre helps to initiate dialogues with designers about directorial concepts and helps to guide actors through a production style that supports the text. This study also includes the artistic challenges, concepts, and decisions that shaped choices for the play before concluding with a critical examination of the final product.