The autobiography of a railway worker's son who, with dazzling speed, rose to be one of the most powerful, outspoken and charismatic figures in European theatre. This book chronicles how, against the odds, the author achieved his ambition. In his early 20s, he was running London's Arts Theatre, putting on provocative plays, including Waiting for Godot. Three years later he staged his first opera, and directed Olivier and Ashcroft at Stratford-upon-Avon. Before he was 30 he had created the Royal Shakespeare Company. Few men take such risks or live so fully, and his new book illuminates his complex, intriguing personality. He describes the ups and downs of his controversial professional and private life and shines light on the many artists involved in his productions - among them Dustin Hoffman, Gielgud, Vanessa Redgrave, Ralph Richardson, Maggie Smith, Laughton, David Hare, Solti, Beckett, Tennessee Williams and Peter Schaffer.