Oh, What a Lovely War! is an epic musical developed by Joan Littlewood and her ensemble at the Theatre Workshop in 1963. It is a satire on World War I, and by extension on war in general. The title is derived from the "somewhat satirical" music hall song "Oh! It's a Lovely War!", which is one of the major numbers in the production.
Original London Cast Recording
Joan Maud Littlewood was an English theatre director who trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, and is best known for her work in developing the Theatre Workshop. She has been called "The Mother of Modern Theatre". Her production of Oh, What a Lovely War! in 1963 was one of her more influential pieces.
Cover of Joan's Book: the autobiography of Joan Littlewood
Joan Littlewood and the Theatre Royal
Philip Jackson's sculpture of Joan Littlewood at Theatre Royal Stratford
Plaque on the wall of the Theatre Royal Stratford, commemorating Joan Littlewood and the erection of the sculpture of her on 4 October 2015