Sheldon Cheney

Sheldon Cheney was an influential American author and art critic, recognized for his pivotal role in the development of modernist theatre in the early twentieth century. Born in Berkeley, California, he initially worked in his father's real estate business before transitioning to the arts. In 1916, Cheney founded and edited Theatre Arts Magazine until 1921, a publication that became a vital platform for promoting American little theatre and advocating for innovative stage design through New Stagecraft. His efforts helped to introduce and popularize European modernist practices in American theatre, significantly impacting the landscape of performing arts in the United States. Cheney's contributions extended beyond criticism; he nurtured emerging playwrights and provided a voice for avant-garde theatre. His advocacy for modernist principles in both theatre and art positioned him as a key figure in the cultural movements of his time. Through his writings and editorial work, Cheney left a lasting legacy that shaped the evolution of American theatre, making him a notable figure in the history of modernist art criticism.