Arnold Wesker

Arnold Wesker

Arnold Wesker (24 May 1932 – 12 April 2016) was a British playwright known for his contributions to contemporary theatre. He was a prominent figure in the kitchen sink realism movement, which emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Wesker's works often explored themes of social justice, class struggle, and the human condition.

Early Life

Arnold Wesker was born in Stepney, London, to a family of Jewish immigrants. His father worked as a tailor, and his mother was a cook. Wesker's upbringing in a working-class environment significantly influenced his later works. He attended the London School of Economics but left to pursue a career in writing.

Career

Wesker's first major success came with the play Chicken Soup with Barley (1958), which is part of a trilogy that includes Roots (1959) and I'm Talking About Jerusalem (1960). These plays are collectively known as the Wesker Trilogy and are celebrated for their portrayal of working-class life and political activism.

In 1961, Wesker founded the Centre 42 project, named after Resolution 42 of the Trades Union Congress, which aimed to bring the arts to the working class. Although the project faced financial difficulties and eventually closed, it was a testament to Wesker's commitment to making the arts accessible to all.

Major Works

Some of Wesker's other notable works include:

• The Kitchen (1959) - A play set in a restaurant kitchen, exploring the lives and interactions of the staff.
• Chips with Everything (1962) - A play that examines the class system within the Royal Air Force.
• The Merchant (1976) - A reimagining of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice from Shylock's perspective.

Later Life and Legacy

In his later years, Wesker continued to write and remained an influential figure in British theatre. He received numerous awards and honors, including being knighted in 2006 for his services to drama. Wesker's works have been translated into multiple languages and performed worldwide.

Arnold Wesker passed away on 12 April 2016, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking and socially conscious theatre.

Personal Life

Wesker was married to Dusty Wesker, and they had three children. He was known for his outspoken views on politics and society, which were often reflected in his works.

See Also

• Kitchen sink realism
• British theatre
• Contemporary theatre
• Social justice in theatre