This contribution introduces the reader to the diverse directorial approaches taken to Elfriede Jelinek's theatre by major theatre directors in examplary German language productions of her work. Directors discussed include Hans Hollmann, Ulrike Ottinger, Frank Castorf, Thirza Bruncken, Einar Schleef, Jossi Wieler, Nicolas Stemann, Christoph Schlingensief, Rudi Häusermann, Karin Beier and Johan Simons.