Daring to Play ─ A Brecht Companion

Translated into English for the first time, Daring To Play: A Brecht Companion is the study of Bertolt Brecht’s theatre by Manfred Wekwerth, Brecht’s co-director and former director of the Berliner Ensemble.

Wekwerth aims to challenge prevailing myths and misconceptions of Brecht’s theatre, instead providing a refreshing and accessible approach to his plays and theatrical craft. The book is rich in information, examples and anecdotal detail from first-hand acquaintance with Brecht and rehearsal with the Berliner Ensemble. Wekwerth provides a detailed practical understanding of how theatre operates with a clear perspective on the interface between politics and art.

Warm and engaging, whilst also being provocative and challenging, Daring to Play displays the continued vitality of Brecht’s true approach to theatre makers today.

Preface by Manfred Wekwerth Part 1 : Brecht's Theatre - An Extended Overview 1. Brecht’s Theatre Today - An Attempt in Seven Days: Stockholm Seminar 2. Brecht’s Simplicity 3. Brechtian Theatre - An Opportunity for the Future Part 2: Political Perspectives 4. The Left’s Difficulties with Culture, or The Practical Use of Brechtian Slogans 5. The Uncertain Thing about Certainty Part 3: Theatre Making - The Fabel 6. Keyword - Fabel 7. Translation, Adaptation, Dramatization Part 4: Two Speeches - Two Moments of Change 8. On the re-opening of the Berliner Ensemble after six months of Reconstruction Work in September 1989 9. On the Opening of the Academy for Performing Arts in Delitzsch in March 2008 Part 5: Enjoying the Final Fruits 10. The Secret Service’s Open Secret - The FBI Brecht File 11. Party Game