Revolt of the Ants

About the Book

An award-winning theatrical director and actress, Nathalie Donnet creates a funny and sharply written memoir of her life in the politically charged theatre of the 1930s - 1960s and beyond. Her recollection of the struggle to create a National Theatre, both in the U.S. and Soviet Union, is a moving plea for young actors to return to their roots, creating a "Theatre of Relevance." This theatre reflects the values and events of everyday life -- not the distortions, cloying commercialism and exploitive violence of today's stage and screen.

Donnet urges actors, writers and artists to make the connection between artistic integrity and political involvement. The rebirth of a universal theatre demands honesty and driving commitment from actors, artists, and politicians. She urges young actors to fight for subsidies and support for the arts.

"Get yourself good training; find a compatible group of people; then go out and create your own theatre and film," Donnet writes. "Let's have a true reflection of life in our theatre...not only with its emnities, but life with its hopes and joys."