Threepenny Opera Teachers' Notes

These Teachers’ Notes are designed to accompany the USQ's 2009 production of The Threepenny Opera.

The Notes complement the performance and aim to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the show.

• Brecht's Life 
• Kurt Weill 
• Brecht's Times: The Historical Context of The Threepenny Opera
• The Beggar's Opera: The Original Threepenny Opera
• Brecht as a Dramatist
• The Dramatic Theatre Versus The Epic Theatre
• Design and Style Influences
• Scene-by-Scene Synopsis
• Character Breakdowns
• Resource List

This set of Teachers’ Notes has been developed by Dramaturge, Adele McDowell with the assistance of USQ School of Creative Arts staff and students, particularly Janet McDonald, Darryl Chalk, Scott Alderdice, Ell-Leigh Ackerman and Lauren Sherritt.