About the Author: Thoughts about Bertolt Brecht from the Company of Rep Term XVI

Bertolt Brecht, a playwright from the early 20th century, was probably best known for his theory. Brecht's ideas about the theatre are well-known and much-studied amongst theatre scholars. It is debatable whether his emphasis on the "teaching" aspect of the theatre has influenced the way we tell stories today, but many agree that without Brecht, theatre would not be what it is in the modern world.

Alongside Carlo Gozzi, we've read several Brecht plays and will perform The Caucasian Chalk Circle - one of Brecht's most famous plays - on the stage in two weeks. So how did the students feel about reading Brecht?

"I really enjoyed learning about his philosophy and theory on theatre, as well as seeing it put into action through his plays." - Andrew Purvis, sophomore

"He pieces together his words like a beautiful patchwork quilt." - Oakton Reynolds, sophomore

"This is the fourth term I've studied Brecht, and I thought I would get tired of him, but the more I read, the more I like him." - Jordyn Stewart, junior

"He's a real intellectual inspiration in regards to theatre." -Steve Selwa, senior

"It's been a real privilege to read so much of Brecht's work in such a short amount of time and to be able to see the evolution of his theory and his writing. The Caucasian Chalk Circle is easily one of my favorite plays, especially after so thoroughly examining it. It's story and lesson are unforgettable - which I think Brecht would appreciate." - Sam Auch, sophomore