The Loeb Drama Center

In honor of opening night at the Loeb Drama Center, the CRIMSON has cast about for some lines on its architectural evolution as a playhouse its goals as an educational facility, and on "Troilus and Cressida," its first production.

First, Archibald MacLeish argues that Loeb's stated function--"plays for audiences"--is not inconsistent with artistic integrity, because good drama needs an "attending consciousness." Robert Chapman, Director of the Center, writes that Loeb seeks a "middle ground" between the theatre school and laissez-faire amateurism. (Page R-3)

Quoting from official policy statements about Loeb, Joel Henning, president of the Harvard Dramatic Club, asks about the future role of student theatre groups, the financing of Loeb productions, and the status of the new Center as an "educational facility." (Page R-9)

Elliot Norton, Boston critic, clearing up the confusion, offers the "only right and proper program" for Harvard theatre. (Page R-6) And James Sharaf, critic for this newspaper, explores the politics of Harvard drama. (Page R-11)

Outlining the evolution of an unusual playhouse, Hugh Stubbins, the architect, shows how Loeb can be used as a proscenium or Elizabethan stage, or a theatre-in-the-round. (Page R-5)

Harry Levin provides some lively notes on the drama of "Troilus aid Cressida"--one of the bard's lesser-known works, chosen as the first production. (Page R-7)