World Interplay is a world conversation about theatre, and a great Australian invention. It is a conversation between the finest young playwrights on the planet about why they make theatre, how they make it, and how it contributes to their many different cultures. It is a conversation that is vigorous, generous and surprising. In July, around 50 of the most remarkable young playwrights from across the globe will meet for two weeks, not only to develop their work, but also to take part in a colloquy that will surely shift their attitudes to both theatre making and the colour and form of the world. When a young artist from Iceland meets another from Kenya, or one from Iran meets another from Mexico, or one from China meets another from Turkey, then clearly stuff will happen. This is a festival not only of the word, but one of the world. I am honoured to be directing World Interplay 2007, and look forward to learning how much I don't know. I hope you can join us. David Berthold Festival Director World Interplay 2007