Renowned British playwright Edward Bond, best known for his groundbreaking 1965 drama 'Saved,' has passed away at the age of 89, as confirmed by his literary agency, Casarotto Ramsay and Associates. Bond, born in London in 1934, left an indelible mark on the theater world with his provocative works that challenged societal norms and conventions.
Bond's career took off with his debut play 'The Pope's Wedding' in 1962 at London's Royal Court Theatre, where he was part of a group of writers known as the 'angry young men' that revolutionized British drama. However, it was 'Saved,' staged three years later at the same venue, that truly made waves. The play, depicting the alienation of urban youth, courted controversy with its stark portrayal of a gang stoning a baby to death in a pram.
The staging of 'Saved' led to a legal battle as plays required approval from the Lord Chamberlain at the time. Despite facing prosecution, the play garnered support from influential figures like Laurence Olivier, who defended its artistic merit. The subsequent ban on 'Saved' and Bond's follow-up work, 'Early Morning,' ultimately led to the end of stage censorship in Britain in 1968.
Bond's repertoire extended beyond provocative themes, with several works drawing inspiration from William Shakespeare. Plays like 'The Sea' and 'Lear' showcased his reimagining of Shakespearean classics, while 'Bingo' featured the Bard as a central character. Bond's influence on younger playwrights, such as Sarah Kane, is evident in works like 'Blasted,' which echoed the shock value of 'Saved.'
Throughout his prolific career, Bond penned over 50 plays, exploring a range of genres from class comedy to historical drama. His final staged play in 2016, 'Dea,' was a powerful adaptation of the Greek tragedy 'Medea,' highlighting his enduring creativity and relevance in the world of theater.
Bond's impact extended beyond the stage, as he also ventured into screenwriting with notable works like 'Blow-Up,' which earned him an Academy Award nomination. His contributions to both stage and screen have left an indelible legacy in the realm of dramatic arts.
