The re-imagined twelfth edition of The Theatre Experience is students' ticket to the best seat in the house. From Broadway to makeshift theater spaces around the world, the author demonstrates the active and lively role they play as audience members by engaging them in the collaborative and creative processes behind and in front of the curtain. Wilson introduces students to the roles of the performers, directors, producers and designers, while emphasizing the insights they as audience members bring to any production. Recast as fifteen chapters, the twelfth edition better accommodates today's teaching schedules, as well as improves accessibility for students by concise insight and up-to-date vibrant production visuals. Students join the creative process with The Theatre Experience, and rehearse for their role as life-long audience members.

Experiencing Theatre, Past and PresentPart One: The Audience The Audience: Its Role and Imagination Background and Expectations of the Audience The Audience views the Stage: Theatre Spaces The Performers and the Director Acting The Director and the Producer Creating the Play: The Playwright Creating the World of the Play Dramatic Forms and Dramatic Characters Tragedy, Comedy and Tragicomedy The Designers Scenery Stage Costumes Lighting and Sound The Theatre Landscape Musical Theatre Today's Global Theatre Contemporary American Theatre