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New multimedia play tells Eva Schloss’ story
By Eric McCrea
YOUNGSTOWN
Listen to the older generation and enlighten the youth. Eva Schloss is a Holocaust survivor who has spoken about her life and experiences through books and public engagements, but her story is being told in a new multimedia play written by J. E. Ballantyne, Jr.
“Images: Remembrances of the Holocaust – The Eva Schloss Story” had it’s world premiere at the Youngstown Playhouse this month, produced by J&B Production Arts Services.
The play begins with an assumed present-day Eva, played by Molly Galano. An unseen reporter, voiced by Lois Schneider, interviews Eva. They begin with her childhood, detailing how her family moved from Austria to Belgium and then Holland to avoid the Nazis.
In Amsterdam, the family was forced into hiding, only to be discovered and sent to the harrowing Auschwitz concentration camp.
After being liberated by the Russians, Eva learned of the death of her father and brother.
Despite this, she was able to move on with her life, very much under the radar, until a former neighbor and future stepfather encouraged her to speak about her life. This man was none other than Otto Frank, the father of famous diarist Anne Frank
Things changed dramatically for Eva, and subsequently, every person she’s encountered.
Though Galano is the only actor on stage before the audience, a series of pre-recorded video segments and slideshows of images punctuate this inspirational story.
Flashback scenes feature young versions of Eva with her mother Mutti (Liz Conrad) and father Pappy (Carl Brockway.) Young versions of Eva are played by Olivia Rossi and Rosie Bresson. The slideshows feature images of World War II Germany, the rise of the Nazi party and the horrors of war and artwork from Eva’s father.
This theatrical mixed-media collage is accented with original music by Rick Blackson.
Galano is gripping as Eva. Her stirring performance, framed by voice and video recordings, captures the hope that the real Eva always has made a priority in her messages.
Her dedication to this courageous endeavor is palpable. She embodies the inspirational Schloss with humility and heartfelt honesty.
Tackling the kind of intensity required in this role is completely in Galano’s wheelhouse, but she adds a subtle dignity to every syllable, demonstrating her deep personal reverence for the real Eva Schloss.
Other noteworthy performers in the video sequences include Terri A. Wilkes, Glenn Stevens and Vincent Dragos as Eva’s late brother, Heinz.
Though the premiere run is drawing to a close, Ballantyne has planned a tour for 2017.
For reservations for today’s final Youngstown Playhouse performance at 2:30 p.m., call 330-788-8739.
For information on future tour dates of “Images: Remembrances of the Holocaust – The Eva Schloss Story,” call 330-799-6176.