This is the first book to integrate practical description and theoretical analysis of the recent work of Jerzy Grotowski, the founder of Objective Drama and one of the most radical and dynamic theatre directors and performance theorists of the twentieth century. Grotowski states that Objective Drama incorporates "those elements of the ancient rituals of various world cultures which have a precise and therefore objective impact on participants.".

First known for his legendary productions with Teatr Laboratorium in Wroclaw, Poland, Grotowski abandoned his career as a stage director at the height of his international renown. He embarked on the multifaceted research that carried him away from theatre and toward its cultural intersection with performance, ritual studies, and anthropology. His experimental research coalesced as Objective Drama, his longterm program at the University of California-Irvine.

In this study of Grotowski's Objective Drama Research one of his students details the practical, performing structures that originated in his workshops. In bringing attention to the recent work of this titan theorist and director, this volume is of great importance to performers, directors, and all who are interested in the history of theatre and performance.