A new addition to our successful "Routledge Performance Practitioners" series of introductory guides to the key theatre-makers of the last century, this book examines Jacques Copeau - a leading figure in the development of twentieth century theatre practice, a pioneer for work on actor-training, physical theatre and ensemble acting, and a key innovator in the movement to de-centralize theatre and culture to the regions. Presenting the background to and the work of one of the major influences on twentieth- and twenty-first-century performance, this is the first book to combine: an overview of Copeau's life and work; an analysis of his key ideas; a detailed commentary of his 1917 production of Moliere's late farce "Les Fourberies de Scapin" - the opening performance of his influential New York season; and a series of practical exercises offering an introduction to Copeau's working methods. As a first step towards critical understanding, and as an initial exploration before going on to further, primary research, "Jacques Copeau "is unbeatable value for today's student.