Embedded Files
By Andrew Digesare
Are you interested in learning about a side of the Holocaust that you may not be familiar with? Do you ever wonder what it must have been like to be a kid during that tragic time period? This year, Kenmore West is putting on a production of the play I Never Saw Another Butterfly by Celeste Raspanti on November 6th, 7th, and 8th. This show delves into the tragic history of the Holocaust. More specifically, this play focuses on the story of many young kids in Terezin, in what was then Czechoslovakia, and highlights their journey throughout their time there.
I Never Saw Another Butterfly tells the story of Raja Englanderova, a girl who survived the concentration camp. Raja narrates her experience there, and we see the challenges she faced but also the moments of hope. One specific person who brought hope to the camp was a lady named Irena Synkova. Irena was a teacher at the camp who taught the kids poetry and art. Irena was also able to teach them how to open up and be optimistic under rough circumstances. Our production will actually feature the kids' artwork and poetry because we believe that that is one of the most beautiful parts of this story.
Between the years of 1942 and 1945, nearly 15,000 Jewish children perished at Terezin. Terezin was a military unit that became a stopping station where thousands of people went on their way to the gas chambers. Sadly, only about 100 children came out alive and were left to return to what was left of their home and family.
It's important to hear actual thoughts from people involved in the show, so I talked to some of my castmates to see how they feel about this production and Theatre West in general. Brenna Diaz had this to say: “I'm a freshman, and I play Irca Englanderova. I think that this play is really powerful and will open many people's eyes. People should see this show because of how powerful it is. It can also educate people.” I also talked with Junior Ava Miosi, who said, “I play Aunt Vera, and I think this show has such a powerful message within its plot line, and it’s able to give the audience a sense of hope and understanding of what happened during that time. Theatre West is such an incredible place that I have formed lifelong friendships in and it feels like a home to me.” Lastly, I talked to Junior Grace Cohely, who plays the role of Helga, and she gave her thoughts on Theatre West and why you should come see the play: “Theatre West is such a great place to go and has been my home for four years. I can't imagine my life without it. I think it is vitally important for people to hear this story due to how beautiful it is. We are working insanely hard to make it come to life, and I think it’s going to be a great experience for anyone who sees it.” If you don't take my word, at least take theirs. They weren't lying when they said this play was not only beautiful but powerful.
Our fabulous director, Ms. Gruninger, otherwise known as G, has been putting in so much work into this show. She, as well as the cast and crew, wants this story to be told in the best way possible. Our goal is to tell their story and give justice to all the wonderful people who sadly lost their lives during this time period. Ms. Gruninger makes the environment so much fun while still pushing us to do our best!
Attending this show would mean the world to everyone involved. So if you're interested, please come and support our amazing program! November 6th, 7th, and 8th are our performance dates, and make sure to bring a box of tissues if you attend because this story can get emotional. If you’re interested in theatre, you can also do the winter musical, take theatre classes, be on stage crew, or participate in our spring play!
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