Bertolt Brecht, one of the greatest theatrical innovators of the 20th century, wrote Mother Courage on the eve of World War II. Although he did not intend for the play to parallel the events of this horrific war, at its 1949 premiere production in East Germany, audiences immediately reacted to its stirring and darkly humorous portrayal of the illogical and horrific nature of warfare.

Considered to be the epitome of Brecht’s Epic Theatre, Mother Courage is a major play of the western theatrical canon, and David Hare’s translation preserves the bitter truth and comedy of the original script.

Focusing on one remarkable woman, Mother Courage is the story of Anna Fierling, who profits and suffers directly from the ongoing military engagement. Trading goods and wares from her cart to survive, her children travel with her, but the twists and brutal turns of war tear her family apart little by little. Also featuring a chaplain, a cook and a prostitute as various friends and influences, Mother Courage shows how its title character must make difficult, heart-wrenching decisions to live and see another day. With multiple songs throughout the play and surprising comedy in the darkest situations, Mother Courage is an eye-opening portrayal of the effects of war.

The cast includes Meredith Hinckley as Mother Courage; Adam Navarro as the chaplain; Jeremy Lelliott as the cook; Nicki Monet Smyer as Yvette; Lee Lee Lawler as Kattrin; Peter Weidman as Eilif; and Joe Gillete as Swiss Cheese.

Lindsay Gassaway is scenic designer, Cassandra Stone is costume designer, Matt Schleicher is lighting designer, Joy Shannon is makeup designer and sound designer is John Fisher.

Advance sales $9 ($8 with advance Titan Discount for students, seniors or with a CSUF ID). At the door all tickets $9.