Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre

Name: Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre
Author: Percy MacKaye

By Percy MacKaye

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About This Book

A community masque reimagines Shakespearean figures to meditate on the theatre as a civilizing art that liberates imagination from brute force and ignorance. It stages symbolic encounters between a passionate, striving Caliban and primeval powers embodied by Setebos and Sycorax, while Prospero, Miranda, and Ariel represent guiding, artistic forces. Structured with a prologue, interludes, three acts and an epilogue, the piece blends choral ritual, visual tableaux, and practical staging material to promote communal performance and civic engagement.

About the Author

Percy MacKaye

Percy MacKaye was an American playwright, poet, and author known for his contributions to the theatrical arts in the early 20th century. His works often blend elements of romance, tragedy, and community engagement, reflecting his interest in the transformative power of theater. Among his notable plays is "Caliban by the Yellow Sands: A Community Masque of the Art of the Theatre," which showcases his innovative approach to performance. MacKaye's writing frequently explores themes of nature and humanity, as seen in works like "Sanctuary: A Bird Masque" and "Fenris, the Wolf: A Tragedy." His legacy includes a commitment to enriching American theater and fostering a deeper connection between audiences and the performing arts.