Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956) is not only a towering figure in the history of theatre making, but also one of theatre’s great theorists. In this course, we will look at the fundamental concepts Brecht develops in his writings and trace their impact on late 20th-century and contemporary theatre. As we explore the extreme and radical forms that theatre has taken over the past century, Brecht’s thought will emerge as an indispensible guiding light.

Beginning with Brecht’s own writings, we will examine his ideas on Non-Aristotelian theatre and the theoretical and practical aspects of his Epic theatre, thereby gaining an understanding of his work beyond its typical popularization. Then, in the second part of the course, we will turn to the work of Augusto Boal, Verbatim Theatre, Documentary Theatre, and contemporary forms of post-narrative and post-dramatic theatre for a full appreciation of Brecht’s legacy and enduring inspirational force.

While the course can be taken on its own, it is designed as a companion piece to the upcoming one-day PICT Creative Writing Workshop, Political Writing for the Stage.