Synopsis
Second of two programmes. When director Robert Wilson was asked to devise a stage piece to reflect the spirit of the Olympics, he decided on a truly global concept - an epic spectacle on the theme of civil war that would be created simultaneously in six countries. Each segment of work would be staged in its originating country before going on to form part of a complete 12-hour performance in Los Angeles. The artistic, logistical and financial problems of the undertaking were immense - Wilson was to be found jetting between cities, directing through interpreters, dealing with financial crises and trying to keep his original conception intact. Arena followed Wilson throughout this immense enterprise and presents a rare insight into the mind and working methods of one of the most influential personalities in contemporary theatre.