Letters to George: The Account of a Rehearsal

by Max Stafford-Clark

A reissued paperback of an account of how a theatre director stages a play, written in the form of letters to George Farquhar, the Restoration writer of THE RECRUITING OFFICER, which describe each part of the rehearsal process. Max S-C has many amusing tales to tell, as one would expect, but the book is also a very interesting insight into how a theatre production can come together through hard work, lateral thinking and imagination

189 pages, Paperback

First published August 10, 1989

Reviews

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

More about 'a recruiting officer' than 'out country's good' but endlessly interesting none the less. Gives a real insight into life in the theatre (i think) and makes me want to be a part of it so much. Essential read for anyone interested in directing!

[Salli · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating read. It made me feel my own need to research was not odd or unusual, but permitted. I envy the 13 week period of rehearsal. Luckily I know both plays quite well so may have got more from it than others. His understanding of the play and surmises about the writing were a lesson to me.

[kiara skene · Rating 3 out of 5]

a LOT about the Recruiting Officer - would recommend reading the play before reading Letters to George. I thought there would be more about his rehearsal process but I was disappointed because there was more of his moaning and groaning towards George (the deceased playwright) and the actors which I didn’t appreciate. However, there were a few good quotes, metaphors and analogies that were particularly useful. Would recommend reading at least once but wouldn’t recommend buying a copy for yourself.

[Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fine insight into what a theatre director does.