Over the last forty years, French director Ariane Mnouchkine and her theater collective, Le Théâtre du Soleil, have devised a form of research and creation that is both engaged with contemporary history and committed to reinvigorating theater by focusing on the actor. Now revised and reissued, this volume combines an overview of Mnouchkine's life, work and theatrical influences; an exploration of her key ideas on theater and the creative process; analysis of key productions; and practical exercises, including tips on mask work.