Terra Firma Oberon Modern Plays: A Comprehensive Guide to the Innovative Theatre Company

History and Origins

Terra Firma Oberon Modern Plays (TFOMP) is an experimental theatre company based in London, England. Founded in 2006 by artistic director Ian Rickson and producer Laura Collier, TFOMP has quickly established itself as one of the most innovative and exciting theatre companies in the UK.

Terra Firma (Oberon Modern Plays)

by Virginia McConnell Simmons

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1299 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	121 pages
Paperback	:	208 pages
Grade level	:	10 - 12
Item Weight	:	12 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.4 x 0.5 x 10.6 inches

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The company's name, Terra Firma Oberon, is derived from two sources: "terra firma," a Latin phrase meaning "solid ground," and "Oberon," the king of the fairies in William Shakespeare's play A Midsummer Night's Dream. This duality reflects the company's commitment to both artistic stability and imaginative exploration.

From its inception, TFOMP has been dedicated to producing challenging and thought-provoking new plays that push the boundaries of contemporary theatre. The company is known for its unconventional staging, immersive performances, and collaborations with groundbreaking playwrights and directors.

Artistic Vision

TFOMP's artistic vision is rooted in the belief that theatre is a vital platform for exploring complex social, political, and philosophical issues. The company strives to create performances that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

TFOMP's productions often grapple with contemporary themes such as identity, alienation, and the nature of reality. The company is not afraid to tackle difficult or controversial subject matter, and its work often provokes strong reactions from audiences.

In addition to producing new plays, TFOMP also stages revivals of classic works in innovative and unexpected ways. The company believes that by revisiting these plays in a contemporary context, it can shed new light on their meaning and relevance.

Impact on Contemporary Theatre

TFOMP has had a significant impact on the landscape of contemporary theatre. The company's innovative productions have challenged traditional notions of what theatre can be, and have inspired a new generation of theatre makers.

TFOMP's work has been praised by critics and audiences alike, and the company has received numerous awards and accolades. In 2011, TFOMP was awarded the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Company.

The company's success is due in no small part to its commitment to artistic excellence and its willingness to take risks. TFOMP is a company that is constantly pushing the boundaries of theatre, and its work continues to inspire and challenge audiences around the world.

Notable Productions

TFOMP has produced a wide range of notable productions over the years, including:

• Blasted (2006) by Sarah Kane: A controversial play that explores the horrors of war and the limits of human endurance.
• Black Watch (2006) by Gregory Burke: A verbatim play based on interviews with soldiers who served in the Iraq War.
• Jerusalem (2009) by Jez Butterworth: A sprawling epic about a group of misfits living on the fringes of society.
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2012) by Simon Stephens: A Tony Award-winning play about a young boy with autism who investigates the mysterious death of his neighbor's dog.
• The Seagull (2013) by Anton Chekhov: A reimagined version of Chekhov's classic play, set in a contemporary London setting.

Terra Firma Oberon Modern Plays is one of the most innovative and exciting theatre companies working today. The company's commitment to artistic excellence and its willingness to take risks have resulted in a body of work that is both challenging and rewarding.

TFOMP's work continues to inspire and provoke audiences around the world, and the company is sure to continue to be a major force in contemporary theatre for many years to come.