Images of Beckett

Images of Beckett combines John Haynes’ unique repertoire of photographs of Beckett’s dramatic opus alongside three newly written essays by Beckett’s biographer and friend, James Knowlson. Haynes captures images of Beckett’s work in progress and performance and includes hitherto unknown portraits of Beckett himself. Haynes was privileged to be present at the Royal Court Theatre, London, when Beckett directed his own plays. Amongst the 75 plates are compositions that include the leading interpreters of the plays. Knowlson’s first essay combines a verbal portrait of Beckett with a personal memoir of the writer; the second considers the influence of paintings that Beckett loved or admired on his theatrical imagery; and the third offers a detailed, often first-hand, account of Beckett’s work as a director of his own plays. The essays are the result of personal conversations with Beckett and attendance at rehearsals, and provide a privileged glimpse into the world of one of the theatre’s most influential and enduring playwrights.

• Gathers valuable photos of Beckett, many never before published, in rehearsal and famous productions. Photos by John Haynes: one of the most well-known theatre photographers in the field • Lively essays by James Knowlson: well-known Beckett biographer and personal friend of the playwright • Will be of interest to theatre lovers and theatre scholars alike; accessible but full of new and important information

Preface and Acknowledgements; List of Illustrations; 1. A Portrait of Beckett; 2. Images of Beckett; 3. Beckett as Director; Notes; Index.

‘… these theatre photos are among the most resonant of the past century … Haynes doesn\'t so much snap a production as x-ray its heart … Biographer Knowlson examines Beckett’s character … visual influences and directorial working method in three beautiful essays that go well beyond the merely dutiful in this tremendous picture book.’ Plays International

‘A stunning collection …’ London Review of Books