American productions grant critics an analytical privilege that’s readily available to all British audiences.

Have you ever noticed how critics will cite stage directions crucial to their interpretations, even if they’re never actually uttered by an actor? That’s because the critics are sent the script to peruse. 

Well, these scripts are often sold inside British theaters. For instance, on your way out of Inter Alia at London’s National Theatre, you can pop open the first pages of the printed text to read the playwright’s introductory note, which includes a dramaturgical explanation open for every production — and audience member — to interpret as they will.  

Now, these keys are merely one piece in a show’s interpretative puzzle, and by no means intended to constitute the be-all-end-all gospel truth on the play. But if you ever want some extra guidance to direct your thinking, these scripts can be an immediate godsend — a cognitive conversation continuer, if you will.