Our April meeting was devoted to “M.
Butterfly”, a play by an Asian American playwright David Henry Hwang. During the introductory presentation club
members looked at various theatrical traditions Hwang was inspired by to write
his masterpiece play.
We learned about the Japanese Kabuki and basic elements of Brechtian epic theater. We also took upon ourselves to discuss major themes of the play, such as: intersection of sexism and racism, fantasy stereotypes, gender switch, and East-West political, social, and cultural relations.
We learned about the Japanese Kabuki and basic elements of Brechtian epic theater. We also took upon ourselves to discuss major themes of the play, such as: intersection of sexism and racism, fantasy stereotypes, gender switch, and East-West political, social, and cultural relations.
“M Butterfly is one of the most compelling and slyly humorous dramas ever to light the Broadway stage, a work of unrivaled brilliance, illuminating the conflict between men and women, East and West, racial stereotypes – and the shadows we cast among our most cherished illusions.” – Plume Books
“A brilliant play of ideas … a visionary work that bridges the history and culture of two worlds.” – Frank Rich, New York Times
by Sylwia Chlebowska
