"Performing in a vaudevillian style including song, dance, storytelling, hand-painted slides and shadow-puppets, Tannis Kowalchuk and Leese Walker could be serving fairy tales to the kiddies, but their intent is far more poignant and appreciated." -Village Voice

In the dark times will there also be singing? Yes, there will also be singing about the dark times. 10 Brecht Poems celebrates the voice of artists, Brecht the poet, the wonders of theatre, and humankind's unstoppable struggle for light in the shadows of war, oppression and suffering. The talented duo of Tannis Kowalchuk and Leese Walker make use of their extensive training in physical theatre, music, and storytelling to bring to life this New Theatre performance.

Each of the ten poems in the series is heralded by a hand-written placard and a simple chime, as the actresses juxtapose song, dance and humor with Brecht's poignant social critique and moving poetry. With grace, skill, and extraordinary energy, the actresses transform the stage, turning simple instruments and objects into the devices of a performance style akin to magical realism. 10 Brecht Poems has toured to the Goethe Institute in Washington DC following an extended run at NYC's Brecht Forum in March-April 2003. The piece has been presented at PS 122, Judson Memorial Church, the Bowery Poetry Club and HERE Arts Center in New York City, the 2003 KO Festival (Amherst College), The Catskill Festival of New Theatre, and The Maryland Ensemble Theatre. College appearances include: Penn State, SUNY Sullivan, New York University, Trinity College-- Austin Arts Center, Muhlenberg College, University at Albany, and Hood College.