This performance is free to the community.

The opera Brundibar was written by Czech composer Hans Krása (1899-1944) in Prague at the beginning of World War II, and tells the story of two children who struggle to raise money to help their sick mother, and their journey to defeat the organ grinder bully, Brundibar. The opera was subsequently taken to the Terezin / Theresienstadt Concentration Camp; a propaganda camp where visiting dignitaries would be shown how “wonderfully” the Nazis were treating the Jews. It was performed 55 times by children in the camp during the war.

While Brundibar has no Holocaust-themed storyline, the circumstances surrounding its inception and performance are unique and essential to understand our history, particularly in combatting anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial. For this reason, we are bringing a corresponding exhibit to Indianapolis, “From the Children, About the Children, For the Children: Art and Writing of the Holocaust” to enhance the educational component of this project. This series of hanging cloth panels from the Institute for Holocaust Education is a colletion of children’s artwork, poetry and selections from the underground newspaper they ran in Terezin.

The opera will be performed by the Indianapolis Opera Resident Aritsts, as well as members of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir. No physical tickets are required for entry, but reservations are encouraged.

FAQs

How long is the performance?

The performance is approximately 45 minutes long.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please contact Rachelle Woolston, Indianapolis Opera Education Director, at woolston@indyopera.org or 317-283-3531

Do I have to bring a printed ticket to the event?

It is not required to have printed tickets for entry, but it is encouraged to make reservations in advance.

Will there be late seating?

No, please arrive 20-30 minutes before the performance to ensure your group is seated.

Do I have to be a member of the synagogue to attend?

No, this performance is open to all members of the community from all walk of faith.

Is the performance appropriate for children?

Yes, this performance is family friendly. We welcome all ages!

Questions for Beth-El Zedeck?

Reach out to Jacqui Goldstein jgoldstein@bez613.org