So what about nudity onstage in theater? How does it happen and how is it managed? Can the organization change? Absolutely! But when institutional change is made to happen without adequate discussion, understanding and buy-in, then chaos and disagreement will be a likely outcome. Often it is the playwright who dictates that nudity be a part of the production of a play. Peter Shaffer required that certain scenes be performed nude in his play, 'Equus.' In 2008 playwright Douglas Carter Beane was upset to learn that a Chicago production of his play 'The Little Dog Laughed' substituted the required nudity with actors in underwear. Sometimes nudity is added by the director.
According to the review in Variety, “Whatever we know about Coward’s personal life, we also know that full-frontal nudity and overt sexuality, gay or straight, pretty much shatters the delicate veneer of restraint and suggestion that gave the playwright his voice.” Writer Noel Coward certainly did not include nudity in his 1939 play, 'Present Laughter.' Yet director Scott Elliot included nude scenes in the 1996 Broadway revival. Shakespeare plays are open to interpretation.
