Meaning: This quote by Richard Foreman, a prominent American playwright and avant-garde theater director, reflects his critical stance towards mainstream Broadway shows and his aversion to what he perceives as sentimental and manipulative theatrical productions. Foreman is known for his experimental and non-traditional approach to theater, and his quote sheds light on his disdain for the conventional and commercially successful productions that dominated the Broadway scene during his formative years.

Foreman's statement reveals his early disillusionment with the popular theater of his time, which he found to be lacking in artistic integrity and authenticity. As a teenager, he sought out Broadway shows and found himself dissatisfied with what he encountered, perceiving them as catering to the emotions of the audience and employing manipulative tactics to evoke a specific response. This dissatisfaction likely played a pivotal role in shaping Foreman's artistic sensibilities and fueling his desire to challenge the traditional norms of theater.

It is important to consider the historical context in which Foreman formed his opinions about Broadway shows. The mid-20th century, when Foreman was coming of age, was a time when commercial theater in the United States was heavily influenced by mainstream entertainment and popular sentiment. The productions that achieved commercial success often prioritized crowd-pleasing elements and formulaic storytelling, which stood in stark contrast to Foreman's artistic inclinations.

Foreman's rejection of Broadway's mainstream offerings aligns with his reputation as a trailblazing figure in the realm of avant-garde theater. Throughout his career, Foreman has been celebrated for pushing the boundaries of theatrical expression and challenging audiences to engage with thought-provoking and unconventional performances. His body of work reflects a commitment to subverting traditional theatrical conventions and exploring the possibilities of non-linear narratives, abstract imagery, and dissonant aesthetics.

In contrast to the sentimental and manipulative qualities that Foreman associates with popular Broadway shows, his own productions are characterized by a commitment to intellectual rigor and a willingness to defy audience expectations. Central to Foreman's artistic philosophy is the belief that theater should be a space for intellectual and sensory stimulation, prompting audiences to question their preconceived notions and embrace the complexities of human experience.

Foreman's critique of Broadway's commercialism and sentimentality also resonates with broader debates about the role of art in society. His rejection of pandering to audience expectations and emotional manipulation can be seen as a call for a more intellectually challenging and artistically daring approach to theater. By eschewing the trappings of commercial success, Foreman positions himself as an uncompromising artist dedicated to upholding the integrity of the theatrical medium.

In conclusion, Richard Foreman's quote offers a glimpse into his early experiences with Broadway shows and the profound impact they had on his artistic development. His rejection of sentimental and manipulative theater reflects his commitment to pioneering a new path in the realm of avant-garde theater, challenging conventional norms, and demanding a more intellectually stimulating and artistically daring approach to theatrical expression. Foreman's enduring legacy as a playwright and director is a testament to his unwavering dedication to redefining the possibilities of theater and inspiring audiences to engage with the complexities of the human condition.