Joan's Book
~ Joan Littlewood

The life story of the woman who singlehandedly reshaped the British theatre scene of the 50s and 60s, and whose Theatre Workshop in London's Stratford East famously created Oh, What a Lovely War!

Kenneth Tynan once remarked on her great ability as a director to make ordinariness fascinating and to produce "biting popular drama that does not depend on hit songs, star names or spa sophistication"

This same flair is evident in her picaresque narrative presenting various characters from her early life, including encounters with irascible caretakers when trying to rig a one-night stand as well as stage-struck cops!

Outspoken in her criticism of those who obstructed the company's work, generous in praising those who contributed to it, Joan Littlewood is always passionate in her conviction that a theatre should be concerned with much more than simply the putting on of plays

Joan's Book is an enthralling life story in its own right

It is also the testament of one of the most influential theatre directors and teachers of the 20th century