Alan Schneider : in search of an American tradition

This study has attempted to establish the seminal influence Alan Schneider has had on the American theatre. Inherent in his significance have been his philosophies regarding the American theatre system. The study has sought to define those philosophies as well as Schneider's directorial practices. They have been affected by a number of factors such as his early tendencies toward theatricalism, his exposure to Lee Strasberg, his fascination for arena staging, and his respect for Beckett, Albee, and Pinter among others. Those elements, coupled with Schneider's experience as director and administrator, have led him to realize and advocate some kind of generative tradition in American theatre.