Peter Shaffer
British playwright who wrote large-scale theatrical spectacles exploring the conflict between genius and mediocrity, the sacred and the rational. Amadeus and Equus are among the most successful serious plays of the late 20th century. His brother Anthony was also a playwright.
Works
- AmadeusMozart's jealous rival Salieri hatches murder plot in 18th-century Vienna
- EquusPsychological drama of a boy's obsession with horses exploring sexuality and identity
- The Royal Hunt of the SunHistorical spectacle of Spanish conquest of Peru through ritual and religious conflict
- Five Finger ExerciseComedy of manners exploring family dysfunction and emotional suppression
- Black ComedyComedic play set in reversed theatrical time exploring domestic conflicts
- Lettice and LovageWitty romantic play about elderly woman and gardener rediscovering passion