"It's as if she's talking to you, the reader-and she could certainly talk. All her prejudices and insecurities are here. But so is her extraordinary life-giving energy. She could touch genius."-Sir Peter Hall "Joan was a revolutionary and a visionary. She changed the course of British theatre. She opened the doors to a different breed of actor."-Sheila Hancock
"A brilliant, restless animateur: a romantic revolutionary, she has left her indelible imprint on British theatre and has bequeathed us countless heirs."-Michael Billington
"This exhilarating autobiography, abrasive, impudent, grossly opinionated, and like her best theatre work, a fine piece of popular entertainment."-Evening Standard
"Joan's Book is as riveting and colorful as the living, popular drama for which she was acclaimed."-Vogue
"Vital, energetic, full of hope and riotous laughter."-Daily Telegraph
"Once upon a time the London theatre was a charming mirror held up to coziness. Then came Joan Littlewood, smashing the glass, blasting the walls, letting the wind of life blow in a rough but ready world. Today, we remember this irresistible force with love and gratitude."-Peter Brook
The life story of the woman who singlehandedly reshaped the British theatre scene of the 50s and 60s.
Kenneth Tynan once remarked on Joan Littlewood's 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 - in her descriptions of the characters in her early life: of encounters with irascible caretakers when trying to rig a one-night stand; and of stage-struck cops.
Outspoken in her criticism of those who obstructed the company's work, generous in praising those who contributed ot it, Joan is always passionate in her conviction that a theatre should be concerne 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.
