Terezín, also known as Theresienstadt, was unique among the
Nazi concentration camps in that it housed musicians, writers, and artists who
were encouraged to continue their respective talents there. However, the Nazis
used this camp as a propaganda tool to show the world how “well” the
inhabitants were treated, going so far as to create a film to this effect,
called The Führer Gives the Jews a City. Make no mistake, though: 33,000
Jews perished at Terezín, primarily from disease and malnutrition.
This program will feature a panel of local experts: Filson
volunteer, Rabbi Stan Miles, and educators, Frederick Whittaker and Daniel
Penner, who will share their knowledge and insights about the Holocaust in
general and Terezín in particular. Mr. Whittaker’s students at St. Francis of
Assisi School will also read poems written by children who were inmates at the
camp. Baritone Morgan Smith will perform selections from the children’s opera,
Brundibár, which had 55 performances at Terezín; this work will be featured on
a program at the Kentucky Opera on May 18.