Steven Adler examines the dynamic life and workings of the theatre company responsible for some of the world s most compelling performances and influential productions of the last forty years, including "Marat/Sade, A Midsummer Night s Dream, Les Miserables, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, "and" Nicholas Nickleby.""Rough Magic" provides a thorough analysis of the many strands of theatrical activity on both sides of the footlights that coalesce in the artistic vigor of the Royal Shakespeare Company. Adler traces the company s evolution from its origins in 1879 as a week-long festival presented by...