Julian Beck Book order

Set against the backdrop of summer 1977, the narrative follows The Living Theatre as they transition from touring Europe to creating a new work in Rome. Julian Beck's fascination with the Prometheus myth drives the development of the play, intertwining characters and themes from the Russian Revolution to address contemporary political issues. The production features a unique structure with three acts, culminating in a vigil outside a prison, and after its 1978 debut, it embarks on a year-long tour across various countries and cities.

In July 1957, Julian Beck and Judith Malina, founders of The Living Theatre, were arrested alongside Dorothy Day while protesting civil defense drills in New York City. Sentenced to thirty days in jail, Beck documented his experiences during his confinement on Hart Island and in The Tombs. This period of reflection prompted him to reevaluate his identity as an artist, ultimately inspiring a lifelong commitment to nonviolent anarchist revolution through his art.