Musical “Irena” Premieres in Berlin
Fostering Polish-German dialogue through the story of a wartime heroine
June 19th, 2024
On May 5, 2024, the Poznań Music Theatre presented the musical drama “Irena” at the Admiralspalast in Berlin. The performance, which attracted around 1,500 attendees, received extended applause. Directed by Brian Kite, this production highlights the life and contributions of Irena Sendler, a Polish social worker who rescued numerous Jewish children during World War II.
Przemysław Kieliszewski, Director of the Poznań Music Theatre, emphasized the importance of the German premiere, noting its role in promoting Polish-German dialogue based on empathy, understanding and remembrance. He also mentioned that the event provides a platform for intercultural and international exchange through the arts.
The event was attended by several notable guests, including Marta Cienkowska, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, Polish parliamentarians, Poznań Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak, Poland’s Ambassador to Germany Dariusz Pawłoś, members of the diplomatic corps in Berlin, and journalists from both German and Polish media. The libretto’s co-authors, Piotr Piwowarczyk and Mary Skinner, along with composer Włodek Pawlik, were also in attendance.
Elżbieta Ficowska, who was saved from the Warsaw Ghetto as a child by Irena Sendler, was the guest of honor. In her speech after the performance, she encouraged young Germans to focus on love rather than feeling guilty for the actions of past generations. Ambassador Pawłoś highlighted the moral legacy of Irena Sendler, drawing parallels between her actions and the need to help children in conflict zones around the globe.
The cast included Oksana Hamerska, a Ukrainian soloist, in the role of Irena. Other principal roles were performed by Radosław Elis as Adam, Anna Lasota as Frau Grinberg, Wiesław Paprzycki as William Green, and Joanna Rybka-Sołtysiak as Magda, among others. Łukasz Pawlik conducted the orchestra, delivering the score effectively.
Dana Solimando, known for her Broadway work, managed the choreography, while Mark Campbell, a Pulitzer and Grammy Award-winning librettist from New York, wrote the songs. The stage design by Damian Styrna, with projections by Elijah and Damian Styrna, and costumes by Anna Chadaj, contributed to the visual and emotional elements of the performance.
The Berlin premiere of “Irena” was organized by the Poznań Music Theatre, with support from the Polish Embassy in Berlin, the Polish Institute Berlin, and the German Poland Institute in Darmstadt. The event received major sponsorship from Orlen Deutschland GmbH, with additional partnerships from PKP Intercity S.A. and the Meliá Hotel Berlin.
This event recognized Irena Sendler’s significant contributions and emphasized the lasting importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering connections between nations. The performance highlighted the legacy of compassion and bravery, reminding audiences of the strength of humanity in challenging times.
