Great Men of Genius, Part 1

Bertolt Brecht

By: Mike Daisey

Narrated by: Mike Daisey

Monologist Mike Daisey presents a dazzling new work: four "bio-logues" about megalomania and desire constructed from the interleaved life stories of Bertolt Brecht, P.T. Barnum, Nikola Tesla, and L. Ron Hubbard.

Over four nights, Daisey explores the nature of genius and wrestles with the pride, insanity, and chauvinism that bind these men together, and reveals how the heights and depths of their gifts have much to teach us about ourselves. Each evening is unique and can be listened to independently, but all four together form an epic oral accounting of triumph and folly told with Daisey's dark and hilarious intensity.

Bertolt Brecht - playwright, poet, lover of women, and certifiable cad who escaped Nazi Germany, sympathized with the Communists, failed in Hollywood, was persecuted by McCarthy, and redefined world theater.

Don't miss more from Mike Daisey.©2006 Mike Daisey (P)2008 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"He is a mesmerizing performer who spins words into comic and emotional gold, revealing as much about himself as the subjects he is discussing." ( Oakland Tribune)
"Mike Daisey's monologues brim with subtle messages that never hammer you over the head...by association, he adds himself to the titular category." ( Time Out New York)

the complete lack of focus

This is a vehicle for the actor to tell HIS stories. NOT an objective story about Brecht in any way whatsoever. Had I know this is about the author and not about Brecht I might have enjoyed it a bit but even making that concession, it is clear that he needs to improve his timing and punchline placement and avoid repeating it. He needs to practice and he needs to improve.