The Hostage. London: Methuen, 1958. First Edition. Pp 92. Black cloth boards, in pictorial dust jacket. A fine bright copy.

Adapted, and extended by the author from a one-act Irish language play ‘An Giall’ – his first major success.

First performed at the Theatre Royal London, 14th October 1958. Produced by Joan Littlewood’s Theatre Workshop, known for its innovative and politically engaged productions.

It received mixed reviews initially but gained acclaim for its boldness and energy & helped establish Behan’s international reputation, alongside The Quare Fellow (1954).