Selected Serbian Plays [Paperback]

AUTHORS presented in this anthology are Branislav Nuai (The Deceased), Djordje Lebovi (Hallelujah), Aleksandar Obrenovi (The Bird), Aleksandar Popovi (Hats Off!), Ljubomir Simovi (The Traveling Troupe `opalovi), Duaan Kova1evi (Balkan Spy), Siniaa Kova1evi (Times Have Changed), Nebojaa Rom1evi (Caroline Neuber), Biljana Srbljanovi (Barbelo, on Dogs and Children), Milena Markovi (A Boat for Dolls).

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After the breakup of Yugoslavia in 1991, the spirit and character of Serbian plays shifted to a basis on altered values and culture as a result of the wars and existential hardships. The most prominent Serbian playwrights following Lebovi, Obrenovi, and Popovi were Ljubomir Simovi and Duaan Kova1evi. Although primarily a poet, Simovi's (1935) plays are readily described as poetic dramas. His The Traveling Troupe Sopalovic depicts actors travelling together and sharing their destiny. The play centers on two characters, Vasilije and Jelisaveta, whose best years are behind them. The plot and characters oscillate between reality and self-delusion, from extreme realism to a poetic vision and we hardly notice the moment when the author of the drama has been joined by a poet , as drama critic Jovan Hristi pointed out.All of the authors in this anthology have made important contributions to the advancement of the theatre arts in modern Serbia. Others could also have been included if not for space limitations. Each of these authors has enjoyed great recognition and popularity in Serbia itself, where their plays have been performed in numerous theatres throughout the country, side by side with the best dramatic literature from around the world. Many of them have also been recognized abroad.This international acknowledgement is a clear sign that Serbian drama has emerged on the world theatrical stage with potency and commendation. It is our sincere hope that l#,