15+ Theater Books for Free! [PDF]

We continue to expand our list of art-related topics. In this opportunity, we present to you our collection of theater books in PDF format containing classic and emblematic plays from the world of dramatic art.

It should be noted that we refer to theater in terms of texts created for the purpose of being performed on stage. In this sense, dramatic plays are written differently from other literary works. With our selection of theater books in PDF format, you can enjoy reading intended for dramatic performance.

The origins of theater as an artistic and literary genre date back to classical Greece, when theatrical text, recitation, music, choreography and costumes combined to create the magic of this priceless art. The greatest exponents of the time were Sophocles, Euripides, Aeschylus (in Tragedy) and Aristophanes (in Comedy).

But, in reality, the theater had its antecedents in the rituals of worship to the gods and in those of food gathering, where representations of different scenes of daily life were performed and where people could demonstrate their artistic talents.

The theater evolved over time, but always retained its fundamental elements, although adapted to the changes of each era. Among them we can mention: the stage (place where theatrical events take place, including the scenography), the actors (people who represent the characters and their actions within the play), the text (script or dramatic text that includes annotations and other references for the director, the producer and the actors) and the costumes.

Theater is an art worth studying and enjoying, so we invite you to take a look at our collection of more than 15 theater books in PDF format. These are plays rated by critics and audiences alike as being of the highest standard.

Theater Books

#1 No Exit and Three Other Plays

Extension: PDF | 157 pages

No Exit and Three Other Plays by Jean Paul Sartre offers a compelling exploration of existential themes through drama. These plays provide a valuable look into human nature, morality, and freedom.

#2 Summer night Dream

Extension: PDF | 87 pages

A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare is a timeless exploration of love, dreams, and the whimsical world of fairies. This edition offers a comprehensive textual introduction, synopsis, and character analysis, making it a valuable resource for both students and enthusiasts.

#3 Hamlet

Extension: PDF | 144 pages

Hamlet by William Shakespeare presents the tragic story of a Danish prince seeking revenge for his father's murder. This accessible edition from the Folger Shakespeare Library enhances understanding and appreciation of the timeless classic.

#4 Tales from Shakespeare

Extension: PDF | 214 pages

Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb retells the Bard's plays in accessible prose for young readers. This valuable collection offers an excellent introduction to Shakespeare's stories and characters.

Theater for Children

Theater in childhood is one of the best forms of expression, fun and development. Children like it and have a good time and it also favors the evolution of all parts of their body and mind. Theater helps children to improve their language, their comprehension and above all their expression.

Theater for children requires a lot of work, a little more than with young people and adults, since being children, their understanding is a little less, so the plays that are represented must be easy for them to understand, as well as to interpret.

Theater for children can also help children to reinforce reading, to learn about literature, art and history, to learn to be communicative and sociable, among many other benefits.

#1 School Play

Extension: PDF | 47 pages

School Play por Arden Kass, Seth Bauer, Edward Sobel is a documentary play based on interviews about the education system in Pennsylvania. It offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges and triumphs within schools, perfect for inspiring dialogue and understanding.

#2 Drama Resources

Extension: PDF | 52 pages

Drama Resources by Education Bureau provides valuable drama activities, scripts, and assessment rubrics for educators. Explore practical schedules and worksheets designed to engage students and enhance their English language learning through drama.

#3 Play Script (Presentation)

Extension: PDF | 28 pages

Play Script (Presentation) by World of Language is a collection of classic children's stories adapted for the stage. Each script offers simplified dialogue and stage directions, perfect for engaging young audiences in performance and fostering literacy skills.

#4 The Three Little Pigs Play script (Article)

Extension: PDF | 2 pages

The Three Little Pigs Play script (Article) por Horbury Primary Academy offers a simple and adaptable play script based on the classic fairytale. It is perfect for young actors and introduces basic storytelling and performance skills.

#5 Drills Dialogues and Role Plays

Extension: PDF | 27 pages

Drills Dialogues and Role Plays por The University of Michigan Press presents effective techniques for language learning through structured activities. It explores how to design engaging drills, dialogues, and role-plays, making it a valuable resource for educators.

Theater techniques and strategies

Being the director of a theater team is not an easy task, since it requires a higher competence than the other members of the team; such a director will require a lot of research, passion and dedication to be able to perform the techniques and strategies necessary to communicate the message to the greatest number of people in the audience.

As for the acting techniques, it is necessary to have the materials that go according to the theme to be dramatized, this is practically one of the most effective strategies, to decorate and dress the actors in a way that only by seeing it captivates the audience present.

Among the main materials used in a theater are: costumes, fabrics, makeup, lights, musical instruments, scripts, sounds, the narrator, the curtain and the mannequins.

#1 Drama Techniques

Extension: PDF | 23 pages

Drama Techniques by Richard Clark offers a compilation of engaging drama and theater games. It provides cost-effective methods for teaching and developing crucial skills, fostering creativity and learning across diverse subjects.

#2 Drama Handbook

Extension: PDF | 24 pages

Drama Handbook by International School of Athens offers a concise overview of fundamental theater techniques and strategies. It is a valuable resource for students and educators, providing essential tools for understanding and creating compelling performances.

#3 Dramatic Techniques and Elements (Presentation)

Extension: PDF | 7 pages

Dramatic Techniques and Elements (Presentation) por Dr K A Korb,Akolo A James, this PDF offers a concise overview of core dramatic techniques and elements, including dialogue, improvisation, and character development. It's a valuable resource for understanding the foundations of theater and applying them in educational settings.

#4 Drama Techniques (Article)

Extension: PDF | 2 pages

Drama Techniques (Article) por Beverley High School lists different drama techniques and their purposes, offering a concise guide for students and practitioners. This resource enhances understanding and application of various strategies in devising and rehearsing plays.

#5 Drama Strategies and Conventions

Extension: PDF | 24 pages

Drama Strategies and Conventions by Patricebaldwin Web Page provides a concise overview of various drama techniques and conventions. It's a valuable resource for educators and practitioners seeking to enhance engagement and creativity in theater activities.

#6 Theatre Appreciation Terms

Extension: PDF | 34 pages

Theatre Appreciation Terms por Department of Theatre Columbus State University offers a comprehensive glossary of theatrical terms. It's a valuable resource for students and enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of theatre.

#7 Screen Acting Tips a Short Guide to Success (Article)

Extension: PDF | 4 pages

Screen Acting Tips a Short Guide to Success (Article) por Kahlil Joseph Performing Artist Web Page. This concise guide provides essential etiquette and techniques for actors in front of the camera. It's a quick read packed with actionable advice to enhance screen presence and performance.

#8 Advanced Acting Strategies for the Experienced Actor (Article)

Extension: PDF | 6 pages

Advanced Acting Strategies for the Experienced Actor (Article) por Eric Morris,Harold Clurman,William Ball offers a concise overview of key acting techniques. It distills wisdom from masters like Stanislavski, providing actionable strategies to deepen character work and enhance performance.

#9 Drama Teaching Resources and Strategies (Article)

Extension: PDF | 1 pages

Drama Teaching Resources and Strategies (Article) by McKay School of Education. This PDF offers a comprehensive overview of drama skills, elements, and teaching strategies. It's a valuable resource for educators seeking to enrich their curriculum with theatrical techniques.

Here ends our selection of free Theater books in PDF format. We hope you liked it and already have your next book!

If you found this list useful, do not forget to share it on your social networks. Remember that “Sharing is Caring”.

Do you want more Art and Photography books in PDF format?