Abstract: Jerzy Grotowski (1933-1999), a Polish theatre director and theorist, was widely respected as one of the most influential figures of experimental theatre and actors’ training in the world in the latter half of the 20^th century. Among his most enthusiastic admirers, supporters and followers are such renowned theatre directors as Peter Brook, Richard Schechner and Eugenio Barba. This interview with Maria Shevtsova, Chair Professor of Theatre Arts from University of London and a specialist on Grotowski, addresses some key issues in Grotowski studies, such as the political and historical contexts of his theatre career, his concepts of “poor theatre” and “art as vehicle,” his cosmopolitan ethics, his indebtedness to the Oriental theatre and other different theatre and performance traditions, his influence on dramatists, actors and theatre directors, and his inspiring impact upon the theatre world today.

Key words: Jerzy Grotowski, Polish Drama, theatre, performance