Federal Theatre Project

Definition

The Federal Theatre Project (FTP) was a New Deal program established in 1935 to provide employment for theatrical artists and to promote theater as a form of public entertainment during the Great Depression. It was part of a larger effort to create jobs and stimulate the economy while making art accessible to a wider audience, highlighting social issues and community involvement through performances across the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The FTP employed thousands of artists, actors, writers, and directors, helping to revitalize the American theater scene during the economically challenging 1930s.
2. One of the most notable productions from the FTP was 'The Cradle Will Rock,' which addressed labor issues and faced censorship challenges.
3. The FTP was discontinued in 1939 due to political opposition and budget cuts, yet it had a lasting impact on American theater and arts funding.
4. The project created a diverse range of performances, including children's theater, folk plays, and adaptations of classic works, making theater accessible to different communities.
5. FTP's approach to incorporating social themes into its productions helped lay the groundwork for future political theater movements in America.

Review Questions

• How did the Federal Theatre Project contribute to the cultural landscape of America during the Great Depression?
  • The Federal Theatre Project played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of America by providing employment opportunities for artists while making theater accessible to a broader audience. Through various performances that highlighted social issues, the FTP engaged communities in meaningful dialogue about their circumstances during the Great Depression. This initiative not only revitalized American theater but also fostered a greater appreciation for the arts as an important aspect of public life.
• Analyze the significance of productions like 'The Cradle Will Rock' within the context of the Federal Theatre Project's mission and challenges.
  • 'The Cradle Will Rock' is significant because it embodied the FTP's mission to tackle pressing social issues through innovative theater. The production faced censorship challenges that reflected broader political tensions during its time. Its controversial nature highlighted how theater could serve as a platform for political discourse, pushing boundaries and prompting conversations about labor rights and social justice—issues that were central to the FTP's goals amid the economic struggles of the era.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Federal Theatre Project on contemporary American theater practices and funding models.
  • The long-term effects of the Federal Theatre Project on contemporary American theater are evident in both artistic practices and funding models. The FTP's emphasis on social relevance and community engagement has influenced modern political theater, encouraging artists to address current issues in their work. Additionally, the legacy of government-funded arts programs can be seen in ongoing debates about public funding for the arts and how such initiatives can help support diverse voices in theater today, reflecting an enduring commitment to accessibility and representation.

Related terms

Works Progress Administration: A key New Deal agency that provided millions of jobs for unemployed Americans, including various arts projects and public works initiatives.

Living Newspaper: A form of documentary theater created by the FTP, which dramatized current events and social issues, using factual information to engage audiences.

Orson Welles:

A prominent figure in American theater and film who gained fame through his innovative work with the Federal Theatre Project, particularly with 'Voodoo Macbeth.'