Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of graphic violence and death. 

A fair in Soho buzzes with beggars, thieves, and sex workers as a ballad singer introduces the infamous Macheath, also called Mac the Knife. The ballad recounts Macheath’s crimes, from murders and thefts to arson and exploitation. Though his actions leave a trail of death and despair, Macheath remains elusive, outwardly charming, and unbothered by his fame. As Jonathan Peachum (the head of a network of beggars), his wife, and daughter cross the stage, the presence of Macheath casts a shadow over all as he detaches himself from the crowd and walks away.

Jonathan Jeremiah Peachum, who controls and profits from a network of beggars, is in his shop. Peachum begins his day with a cynical hymn on human selfishness and sin, which expresses his own views of the world and his work. Addressing the audience, he explains that his business depends on stirring pity but that human indifference to repeated suffering makes his work increasingly challenging. He laments the need for constant innovation since even biblical phrases meant to evoke generosity lose their impact over time.