The Critics' Canon: Standards of Theatrical Reviewing in America

(Hardback)

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Palmer clearly states that his purpose is to explain 1the ways of critics to theatre practitioners, the ways of theatre to inexperienced reviewers, and the dynamic convergence of theatre and critic to anyone interested in theatre.' . . . The work is a well-written `primer' for writers and it will be useful primarily to performers who object to unfavorable `criticsm' without understanding the nature and purpose of reviewing. Accessible to general readers and undergraduates. Choice Palmer begins with an examination of the theatrical review as a medium for informing and entertaining theatregoers, documenting events of artistic of community importance, and supporting theatre through critical evaluation and publicity. He next comments on how journalistic pressures affect reviewers. Citing brief examples from hundreds of reviews, the author devotes a chapter to each of the elements that needs to be covered in a review, including performers, script, direction, music, and choreography, together with stage and lighting design and other physical aspects of the production. The final chapter develops criteria for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of a theatrical review, based on aesthetic standards, the cultural tastes of theatregoers, and the interests of the community. Palmer's experience as both a theatre professional and a journalist gives him an intimate understanding of the antagonism that often develops between reviewers and those who feel themselves to be the target of irresponsible criticism. His book provides a clear perspective on theatrical matters and guidelines that will help to improve standards of reviewing and create an appreciation of the essential relationship between the theatre and its critics.

Reviews

Palmer clearly states that his purpose is to explain "the ways of critics to theatre practitioners, the ways of theatre to inexperienced reviewers, and the dynamic convergence of theatre and critic to anyone interested in theatre." He follows common practice of not distinguishing between critic and reviewer, but he notes that a review focuses on a specific theatre event and carries a time value, whereas criticism takes a broader, more theoretical view and commonly deals with an ideal performance or a script apart from the occasion. In the first two chapters Palmer, who has both theater and journalism experience, defines the nature of reviewing and focuses on the journalistic considerations as well as the restrictive obligations of the reviewer to his readers, the theater event being examined, and the community/media sponsor. The remainder of the book is devoted to aspects to be considered in reviewing: the script, the actors, the director, and technical and production contributions. The final chapter suggests solutions to some common reviewing faults. Examples of reviews of the 1986-87 theatre season in America illustrate the points made. The work is a well-written "printer" for writers and it will be useful primarily to performers who object to unfavorable "criticism" without understanding the nature and purpose of reviewing. Accessible to general readers and undergraduates.-Choice
The Critics' Canon by Richard H. Palmer (Westport's Greenwood Press, 183 pgs.) and what a wonderful book it is! It sets out to create standards for theater reviewing and, if you ever wanted to review theater or find the best reviewer around, a look at this book is all you need. Chapter 10 offers Strengths and Weaknesses of a Theatrical Review, ' a 13-page explanation of what to look for in a review--how to spot a theater reviewer or a theater bullthrower. With ticket prices soaring in our area, it's a useful way to get to know your local reviewer's priorities and prejudices. Wonderful stuff. We recommend it highly.-Fairfield County Advocate
"The Critics' Canon by Richard H. Palmer (Westport's Greenwood Press, 183 pgs.) and what a wonderful book it is! It sets out to create standards for theater reviewing and, if you ever wanted to review theater or find the best reviewer around, a look at this book is all you need. Chapter 10 offers Strengths and Weaknesses of a Theatrical Review, ' a 13-page explanation of what to look for in a review--how to spot a theater reviewer or a theater bullthrower. With ticket prices soaring in our area, it's a useful way to get to know your local reviewer's priorities and prejudices. Wonderful stuff. We recommend it highly."-Fairfield County Advocate
"Palmer clearly states that his purpose is to explain "the ways of critics to theatre practitioners, the ways of theatre to inexperienced reviewers, and the dynamic convergence of theatre and critic to anyone interested in theatre." He follows common practice of not distinguishing between critic and reviewer, but he notes that a review focuses on a specific theatre event and carries a time value, whereas criticism takes a broader, more theoretical view and commonly deals with an ideal performance or a script apart from the occasion. In the first two chapters Palmer, who has both theater and journalism experience, defines the nature of reviewing and focuses on the journalistic considerations as well as the restrictive obligations of the reviewer to his readers, the theater event being examined, and the community/media sponsor. The remainder of the book is devoted to aspects to be considered in reviewing: the script, the actors, the director, and technical and production contributions. The final chapter suggests solutions to some common reviewing faults. Examples of reviews of the 1986-87 theatre season in America illustrate the points made. The work is a well-written "printer" for writers and it will be useful primarily to performers who object to unfavorable "criticism" without understanding the nature and purpose of reviewing. Accessible to general readers and undergraduates."-Choice

Author Bio

RICHARD H. PALMER is Professor of Theatre at the College and William and Mary. He was Director of Edison Theatre in St. Louis from 1972 to 1980 and General Manager of the Virginia Shakespeare Festival from 1982 through 1986. A stage director and designer, he is also author of The Lighting Art: The Aesthetics of Stage Lighting Design, as well as articles on theatre history, dramatic literature, lighting, and stage photography.