FAQ

Isn't a musical about the Holocaust inappropriate?

No. From the day we first put pen to paper and finger to keyboard, we have acknowledged the importance of treating the subject matter with respect. Each of us has Holocaust survivors in the family, and we have tried our utmost to honor them as well as the memory of our less fortunate relatives. The Terezín survivors who have seen developmental readings have all responded positively to the work; according to one of them, "it has the ring of truth."

Isn't a musical about the Holocaust depressing?

No. First, we've tried to make our characters as human as possible, which means that we've given them flaws, which means they are funny. Not "Springtime for Hitler" funny, but funny like real people are funny in real situations—when a young man, for instance, becomes completely tongue-tied over a girl. Second, Signs of Life is in part a musical about how the human need to create will always triumph over the urge to destroy. An audience member at a recent reading asked one of the actors, "Did you have trouble rehearsing this material night after night?" The actor replied, "No. We would go home really jazzed because we felt like we were finding hope in the wake of a senseless tragedy."

How can I learn more about Terezín the place?

There are many excellent articles about Terezín on the Internet. Two that we like are at the Jewish Virtual Library and the Terezín Memorial. Not long ago, 60 Minutes broadcast an excellent segment on Terezín; Knight Ridder Video has also produced a documentary about the camp. There are many websites where you can find photographs of the camp itself and artwork created by the inmates.

How can I learn more about the show?

Go to www.terezinproduction.com or write to us at info@terezinsings.org.