Meaning: Edward Bond, a prominent British playwright and director, made a thought-provoking statement with the quote "First there was the theatre of people and animals, then of people and the devil. Now we need the theatre of people and people." This quote encapsulates the evolution of theatrical themes and the need for human-centered narratives in contemporary drama.

The first part of the quote, "the theatre of people and animals," suggests an ancient form of theater that may have involved storytelling or rituals depicting the relationship between humans and animals. This could refer to early forms of performance in various cultures, such as ancient Greek and Roman theater, where animal characters and mythical creatures played significant roles. These performances often incorporated elements of mythology, folklore, and the natural world, reflecting the deep connection between humans and animals in ancient societies.

The second part of the quote, "the theatre of people and the devil," points to the prevalence of religious and moral themes in traditional theater. Throughout history, many theatrical productions were centered around moral dilemmas, religious allegories, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The devil, as a symbolic representation of evil and temptation, frequently appeared in these narratives, serving as a dramatic foil to human characters and their ethical choices.

In contrast, Bond's call for "the theatre of people and people" highlights the need for a shift in focus towards human relationships, interactions, and societal issues. This emphasis on human-centered storytelling reflects a desire for more nuanced and realistic representations of the human experience on stage. It suggests a move away from allegorical and fantastical themes towards narratives that directly engage with the complexities of human life, relationships, and social dynamics.

Bond's quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the evolving role of theater in reflecting and shaping the human experience. It implies a growing recognition of the importance of interpersonal connections, empathy, and social relevance in theatrical storytelling. By advocating for "the theatre of people and people," Bond encourages playwrights and directors to explore the rich tapestry of human experiences, emotions, and conflicts in their work.

In contemporary theater, this call for human-centered narratives has led to the emergence of plays and productions that delve deeply into the complexities of human relationships, societal challenges, and individual struggles. Playwrights and theater-makers increasingly seek to portray authentic and diverse human experiences on stage, addressing issues such as identity, inequality, mental health, and interpersonal dynamics with honesty and depth.

Furthermore, Bond's quote also speaks to the potential of theater as a platform for fostering empathy, understanding, and social change. By emphasizing the significance of "the theatre of people and people," the quote underscores the power of theater to illuminate the human condition, provoke meaningful dialogue, and inspire audiences to engage with the world around them.

In conclusion, Edward Bond's quote encapsulates the trajectory of theatrical themes from ancient times to the contemporary era, highlighting the evolving focus on human-centered narratives in theater. It underscores the importance of authentic human experiences, relationships, and societal issues in theatrical storytelling, signaling a shift towards more inclusive, empathetic, and socially relevant narratives on stage. Bond's call for "the theatre of people and people" resonates with the ongoing evolution of theater as a dynamic and vital medium for exploring, understanding, and celebrating the complexities of the human experience.