The best 42 Theatre books

Death of a Salesman (1949) is widely regarded as one of the twentieth century’s greatest plays. A poignant critique of the promises and pitfalls of capitalism and the American Dream, it follows the salesman Willy Loman, his increasingly tense relationships with his family and colleagues, and his tragic, hallucinatory descent into fantasy and madness. 

Hamlet (c. 1509-1601) is widely regarded as Shakespeare’s greatest play. A tragedy in five parts, it tells the story of Prince Hamlet, a thinker who must turn to action to avenge his father. It’s not only the finely crafted plot that’s fascinated readers and theatergoers down the centuries, though – Hamlet is also a penetrating study of the meaning of life and death.

Electra (410 BC) is a deep dive into the power of emotions and the thirst for justice. It outlines the severe grief and anger of Electra, a character in ancient Greek mythology, who yearns to avenge her father’s murder.

The Cherry Orchard (1904) is a poignant reflection on the fading influence of Russia’s nobility at the dawn of a new age of industry and materialism. The play centers on an aristocratic family returning to its ancestral estate, shortly before the property’s sale. Despite proposals to rescue the estate, the family’s impractical and nostalgic romanticism leads to disaster; the family home is sold to a plebeian millionaire intent on cutting down its titular cherry orchard. 

The Tempest (1623) is the ultimate revenge story. After being exiled from Milan by his scheming brother, the sorcerer Prospero uses his magical powers to conjure a storm that shipwrecks his enemies on his island, where he uses a series of magical illusions to take his vengeance. 

Long Day's Journey Into Night is a powerful and deeply personal play that delves into the dysfunctional dynamics of a family. Set over the course of one day, it explores the complex relationships between the Tyrone family members as they grapple with their own demons and the weight of their past. With raw emotion and poignant storytelling, Eugene O'Neill offers a haunting portrayal of addiction, regret, and the enduring bond of family.

Set in the Mississippi Delta, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" is a powerful drama that delves into the complexities of family relationships, greed, and societal expectations. The play revolves around the wealthy Pollitt family as they gather to celebrate the birthday of patriarch Big Daddy. Tensions rise as long-buried secrets and desires come to the surface, ultimately exposing the fragile facade of their lives. Williams' masterful storytelling and rich character development make this a timeless classic.

Hedda Gabler is a play written by Henrik Ibsen that delves into the complex and tragic life of the title character, Hedda Gabler. Set in 19th century Norway, the play explores themes of power, control, and societal expectations as Hedda navigates her unhappy marriage and the constraints placed upon her as a woman. With its gripping plot and thought-provoking dialogue, Hedda Gabler is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences.

The Bacchae is a Greek tragedy that tells the story of the god Dionysus and his revenge on the city of Thebes. Through a series of dramatic events, the play explores themes of power, religion, and the consequences of denying one's true nature. It is a thought-provoking and timeless examination of the human condition.

The Iceman Cometh is a play by Eugene O'Neill that delves into the lives of a group of disillusioned individuals in a seedy bar. Set in 1912, the play explores themes of hope, delusion, and the human desire for connection as the characters confront their own shattered dreams and face the harsh realities of their lives. It is a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the human condition.

Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of a small town in Newfoundland that opened its doors to thousands of stranded airline passengers in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Through interviews and firsthand accounts, the book explores the kindness and generosity of the townspeople, as well as the bonds that were formed in the face of tragedy. It is a heartwarming tale of compassion and unity in the midst of adversity.

"Tartuffe" is a classic French play written by Molière. It tells the story of a wealthy man named Orgon who is deceived by the hypocritical and manipulative Tartuffe. The play explores themes of religious hypocrisy, gullibility, and the consequences of blind faith. It is a satirical and thought-provoking work that continues to be relevant today.

"The Birds" is a comedic play by Aristophanes that tells the story of two Athenians who convince the birds to create a utopian city in the sky, in order to escape the control of the gods and the power of the city of Athens. The play is a satire on the political and social issues of ancient Greece, and explores themes of power, freedom, and the absurdity of human behavior.

The Glass Menagerie is a classic play that delves into the lives of the Wingfield family. Set in 1930s St. Louis, the story revolves around the dreams and struggles of the family members, particularly the fragile Laura and her overbearing mother Amanda. Through poetic language and poignant storytelling, Tennessee Williams explores themes of illusion, escape, and the harsh realities of life.

"Life Is a Dream" is a thought-provoking play that explores the themes of fate, free will, and the nature of reality. Written by Spanish playwright Pedro Calderón de la Barca, the story follows the journey of Prince Segismundo, who is imprisoned at birth due to a prophecy. As he grapples with his newfound freedom, Segismundo questions the nature of his existence and the power of his own choices. This philosophical and introspective work challenges the audience to ponder the meaning of life and the role of destiny in shaping our experiences.

Oedipus at Colonus is a Greek tragedy by Sophocles that tells the story of Oedipus, the former king of Thebes, as he seeks refuge in the sacred grove of the Furies at Colonus. The play explores themes of fate, redemption, and the power of the gods, as Oedipus comes to terms with his past and prepares for his eventual death. It is a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the human condition.

"Philoctetes" is a Greek tragedy by Sophocles that tells the story of a Greek warrior who is abandoned on a deserted island because of a painful and foul-smelling wound. When the Greeks need his magical bow to win the Trojan War, they send Odysseus to convince him to join them. The play explores themes of betrayal, suffering, and the power of fate.

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry is a powerful play that delves into the dreams, struggles, and resilience of an African American family living in 1950s Chicago. As they grapple with societal expectations, racial discrimination, and their own conflicting aspirations, the Younger family members each strive for a better life and a sense of dignity. This timeless classic explores themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.

Drama by Raina Telgemeier is a graphic novel that follows the story of Callie, a middle school student who is passionate about theater. As she navigates friendships, crushes, and the ups and downs of putting on a school play, the book delves into themes of self-discovery and the excitement of being part of a creative community.

Measure for Measure is a thought-provoking play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of justice, morality, and power. Set in Vienna, the story follows the Duke as he temporarily hands over power to Angelo, who rules with strict enforcement of the law. When a young man named Claudio is sentenced to death for impregnating his fiancée, his sister Isabella pleads for mercy. The play raises questions about the nature of justice and the abuse of authority.

No Exit and Three Other Plays is a collection of thought-provoking plays by Jean-Paul Sartre. In the titular play, three characters find themselves in a mysterious room in hell, forced to confront their own actions and the consequences of their choices. The other plays in the collection, The Flies, Dirty Hands, and The Respectful Prostitute, also delve into existential themes and moral dilemmas, making this book a compelling exploration of human nature.

Othello is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of jealousy, betrayal, and racism. Set in Venice, the story follows the Moorish general Othello as he falls victim to the manipulations of his ensign, Iago. This classic work explores the destructive power of suspicion and the tragic consequences it brings.

Pygmalion is a classic play by George Bernard Shaw, first published in 1912. It tells the story of a professor who makes a bet that he can transform a working-class woman into a lady by teaching her how to speak and act like a member of the upper class. The play explores themes of social class, identity, and the power of language.

Richard III is a historical play by William Shakespeare that delves into the Machiavellian rise to power and reign of King Richard III of England. Filled with political intrigue, manipulation, and betrayal, the play offers a compelling portrayal of one of Shakespeare's most complex and villainous characters. It explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked power.

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde is a comedic play that satirizes the manners and customs of Victorian society. Through witty dialogue and absurd situations, Wilde explores themes of identity, marriage, and societal expectations. The play follows the story of two friends who lead double lives in order to escape the constraints of their social obligations. It offers a humorous critique of the shallow values and hypocrisy prevalent in the upper class of the time.

The Oedipus Cycle by Sophocles is a collection of three timeless Greek tragedies: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, and Antigone. These plays explore themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of our actions. They tell the gripping story of Oedipus, a man destined to fulfill a tragic prophecy, and the devastating effects it has on his family and kingdom.

The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler is a groundbreaking collection of interviews, stories, and personal reflections that celebrate and explore the experiences of women. Through candid and fiercely honest monologues, the book addresses issues of sexuality, body image, violence, and empowerment, ultimately challenging societal norms and giving a voice to the often unheard stories of women.

'Waiting for Godot' by Samuel Beckett is a timeless classic that delves into the themes of existentialism, the meaning of life, and the concept of waiting. Through the absurd and thought-provoking conversations between its main characters, Estragon and Vladimir, the play challenges our perceptions and invites us to reflect on the human condition.

Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is a play written by Edward Albee that delves into the complexities of marriage and relationships. Set in the 1960s, it follows the tumultuous interactions between a middle-aged couple, George and Martha, and a younger couple, Nick and Honey, during a late-night gathering. Fueled by alcohol and deep-seated resentments, the play explores themes of truth, illusion, and the destructive power of secrets.

Angels in America by Tony Kushner is a groundbreaking play that explores themes of politics, religion, and identity in the midst of the AIDS crisis in 1980s America. Through complex characters and surreal elements, the play delves into the struggles and resilience of individuals as they navigate personal and societal challenges. It offers a thought-provoking examination of the human experience and the search for hope and connection.

Doubt is a thought-provoking play that delves into the complexities of faith, morality, and power. Set in a Catholic school in the 1960s, it revolves around a nun who becomes suspicious of a priest's relationship with a young student. As the story unfolds, it challenges the audience to confront their own beliefs and uncertainties.

Equus is a thought-provoking play by Peter Shaffer that delves into the complex relationship between a psychiatrist and his teenage patient, who has a pathological fascination with horses. As the psychiatrist delves deeper into the boy's psyche, he uncovers his own inner turmoil and questions the societal norms that have led to such a disturbing outcome. This gripping tale explores themes of passion, religion, and the power of the human mind.

Glengarry Glen Ross is a play by David Mamet that delves into the high-stakes world of real estate sales. Set in a Chicago office, the story follows a group of salesmen who resort to unethical and cutthroat tactics in a desperate attempt to survive in a competitive and ruthless industry. The play explores themes of masculinity, power, and the American Dream, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the darker side of capitalism.

Lady Windermere's Fan is a play by Oscar Wilde that delves into the complexities of marriage, morality, and social expectations. Set in the high society of Victorian London, the story follows Lady Windermere as she grapples with the revelation of her husband's potential infidelity. Filled with Wilde's trademark wit and satire, the play offers a thought-provoking exploration of the double standards imposed on women and the power dynamics within relationships.

Le Malade imaginaire is a classic play by Molière that satirizes the medical profession and hypochondria. It tells the story of Argan, a wealthy but miserly man who is obsessed with his imagined illnesses. Through hilarious and absurd situations, the play criticizes the ignorance and greed of doctors while also exploring themes of love, deception, and the power of the mind.

M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang is a captivating play that challenges traditional gender roles and explores the complexities of love and deception. Inspired by a true story, it tells the tale of a French diplomat who falls in love with a mysterious Chinese opera singer, only to discover that things are not as they seem. The book delves into themes of cultural stereotypes, power dynamics, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.

Mother Courage and Her Children is a play by Bertolt Brecht that explores the devastating effects of war on a family. Set during the Thirty Years' War, it follows the resilient Mother Courage as she navigates the battlefield with her three children, trying to make a living by selling goods to the soldiers. Through her struggles and sacrifices, the play offers a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of war and the human cost it exacts.

Othello is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of jealousy, race, and betrayal. Set in Venice, the story follows the Moorish general Othello, whose life is torn apart by his ensign Iago's deceitful manipulation. As Othello becomes consumed by jealousy, the play explores the destructive power of suspicion and the tragic consequences that unfold.

The Laramie Project is a play by Moises Kaufman that delves into the brutal murder of Matthew Shepard in 1998, and its impact on the small town of Laramie, Wyoming. Through a series of interviews with residents, the play explores themes of hate, tolerance, and the power of community in the face of tragedy.

The Pillowman is a dark and twisted play by Martin McDonagh that delves into the power of storytelling and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. Set in an interrogation room, it follows the tale of a writer named Katurian, whose macabre stories bear eerie resemblances to a series of child murders. As the play unfolds, it challenges the audience to question the nature of art, morality, and the consequences of our words.

Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose is a gripping courtroom drama that delves into the complexities of the American justice system. Set in a sweltering jury room, the story follows twelve jurors as they deliberate the fate of a young man accused of murder. Tensions rise as the jurors confront their own prejudices and biases, ultimately forcing them to question the validity of the evidence presented. This thought-provoking play challenges the audience to examine the power dynamics and flaws within the legal process.

Wit by Margaret Edson is a thought-provoking play that delves into the themes of life, death, and the human experience. Through the story of a brilliant professor diagnosed with terminal cancer, the book challenges the audience to contemplate the true meaning of existence and the importance of compassion and connection in our lives.