Common/Wealth battle the numbness and disassociation that is a consequence of life under late capitalism with straightforward acts of extra ordinary connection. Their work is powerful, joyful, purposeful and full of integrity. They make theatre that cares about people, and that people care about. This book shares how. Kae Tempest, 20 Stories High
Since their very earliest work Common/Wealth have shown a rare ability to marry precise and rigorous political thinking with a joyous sense of artistic experiment. Always listening to the communities they work with, and always abreast of the most thrilling innovations in performance, they bring the joy of discovery to everything they do, and enrich us all in the process. John McGrath, Artistic Director and Chief Executive, Factory International
'This book is a call to arms. It is an inspiring and galvanising read for anyone who makes theatre, or who is sick of feeling helpless to affect change. Stop stalling, read this book!' Gob Squad
An idealistic howl of a manifesto brimming with practical tools for making theatre. A companion to Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed. A new generation of theatre makers are about to be created. As the authors say, 'don't wait for permission'. So go, create dangerously, we need you more than ever. Patrick Jones, Poet and playwright
Do It Yourself is a vital handbook for making political, site-specific theatre when it is desperately needed. Common/Wealth are some of the very best in the business, prioritising conversation, play and invention in an approach that is irreverent, ingenious, generous-spirited and galvanising. Jen Harvie, Queen Mary University of London
'This is a book about why theatre matters, why it matters who makes theatre, and what can be done to change how theatre is made. It is a force for good, a practical, passionate account of whats possible, and how to achieve the impossible. Read it, learn, and act. Now.' Helen Nicholson, Royal Holloway, University of London
'Its bloody excellent. Fuck me' Matt Woodhead. Co-Director, LUNG
'Accessible, engaging and deeply inspiring. At a time when so much seems so broken and in need of urgent action, this book serves as an important and highly practical resource for those who share Common/Wealths conviction that theatre can change things for the better.' Bobby Smith, University of Warwick
Culture is not owned by the privileged. Its everywhere and made by everyone. Common/Wealth know this - theyve been proving it for years. This book gives us all permission to stop waiting, stop asking and start doing on our own terms. Common/Wealth have created something essential - a bold, useful, uncompromising toolkit for using creativity to build the world we want to live in and be part of. Politics isnt a side note. Class isnt a backdrop. This book makes that clear - and refuses to let you forget it. Do It Yourself: Making Political Theatre is a call to disrupt, to break away, and to play without apology. Its practical, political, and rooted in care. Because DIY doesnt mean alone - it means collective, messy, and on our own terms. Its a reminder that we can all decide what theatre is, who its for, and where it happens. Katy Baird, Artist and Director of Home Live Art
Whether youre an emerging artist, a battle-worn activist, or someone whos never made theatre, this book will hand you a mic, and a set of tools. Do It Yourself isnt just a book its a rallying cry! Keith Saha, Artistic Director/Co-CEO/Co-founder, 20 Stories High
The book that theatre needs right now. Impassioned, practical, and rooted in a fiery integrity that illuminates every page Selina Thompson, Artistic Director Selina Thompson Ltd. -- .
