PRODUCTION PHOTOS

Our Class

by Tadeusz Słobodzianek

english version by Ryan Craig

directed by Blanka Zizka

October 12, 2011 – November 13, 2011

Since its 2009 World Premiere at London’s National Theatre, audiences and critics have been deeply moved by the stories within this extraordinary play that spans eighty years, ranging between Poland and America. “I want to be a fireman.” “I want to be a teacher.” “I want to be a movie star.” Poland, 1925. As these Polish classmates – 5 Catholic, 5 Jewish – grow up, their lives take dramatically unexpected turns as their country is torn apart by invading armies, first Soviet and then German. Friend betrays friend and violence quickly escalates, reaching a crescendo that will forever haunt the survivors. Based on true events in the Polish town of Jedwabne and inspired in part by Jan Gross’ controversial book Neighbors, Our Class bravely explores a subject still debated today.

Running Time:

2 hours and 50 minutes (includes a 15 minute intermission)

Press / News

It’s tough, energized and revealing: extraordinary, provoking theater.

— Review in the Philadelphia Inquirer

"Rich stories…a strong cast…superbly realized…this production triumphs!"

— Review in Philadelphia City Paper

"Over the course of 80 years, they - or their ghosts - struggle with one another and then with the memories of what takes place. They change or they don't change: hero, victim, villain, rescuer, murderer, watcher, enabler. Classmates. Neighbors."

— Preview Feature in the Philadelphia Inquirer

The play, said Zizka, asks an elemental question: Who are our neighbors; and how is it that people can turn on others they've known for so long and do such horrible things?

— Jewish Exponent

"A forceful play...superbly plotted!"

— London's Guardian

“A remarkable and powerful play!”

— London's Daily Telegraph

“Superb theater! You’re likely to find yourself stunned!”

— The Toronto Star