1930s Chicago – city in the grip of corruption and crime – a city where a gangster can really make a name for himself – especially if his name is Arturo Ui.
Brecht’s classic comedy is a brilliant wicked exposé of evil on the march – following Arturo as he moves from small-time hoodlum to master of the city, helped by corrupt politicians, weak courts and immoral journalists.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the Atlantic, a similar small-time crook is on the make – and he has global ambitions. As the play progresses, the parallels become clear.