September 12—October 8, 2017

The Children's Republic

by Hannah Moscovitch

Show Info

Mainstage 1 (part of your season ticket package)

Directed by Christian Barry
Premiere

“Why we go to theatre in the first place…Good theatre is always transformative and it teaches you and entertains you and leaves you, with perhaps, a new emotional experience.” CBC Radio

“The young cast brings incredible purity and vulnerability to these demanding roles, with each being given their own moment to shine.” Janis Lacouvee

“Hannah Moscovitch’s retooled version of her Second World War drama The Children’s Republic has acquired newfound relevance.” Times Colonist

“If this all sounds depressing, be aware that there is humour in the dialogue from time to time, which saves The Children’s Republic from being totally dark…If you are looking for light and fluffy entertainment, this is definitely not it. But if you want a piece of theatre that will challenge you and make you ponder the strength of the human spirit in times of unspeakable horror, then do not hesitate to pick up the phone and reserve your seats.” Monday Magazine

The Children’s Republic is based on the true and inspirational tale of Dr. Janusz Korczak, a selfless advocate for children’s rights. In the Jewish Orphanage, confined within the walls of the Warsaw ghetto, Korczak struggles to protect the children, and save them from the horrors of World War II. A powerful and true story of beauty and heroism in a world devoid of freedom and the necessities of life.

Why I Chose This Play
Hannah Moscovitch is one of the world’s great writers – and this is an exceptionally beautiful play. Knowing that she wanted to revisit this script, we commissioned her to write a new version. At an exciting workshop in October, Hannah began empowering the children to tell the story – a brilliant reflection of Korczak’s approach to nurturing the young. —Michael Shamata

The Children’s Republic is generously supported by

       

 

 

Cast & Artists

    • Lily Cave
    • Mettye
    • Sophia Irene Coopman
    • Sara
    • Zander Eke
    • Israel
    • Paul Rainville
    • Janusz Korczak
    • Kerry Sandomirsky
    • Stefa
    • Simeon Sanford Blades
    • Misha
    • Sari Alesh
    • Violinist
    • Hannah Moscovitch
    • Playwright
    • Christian Barry
    • Director
    • Camellia Koo
    • Designer
    • Kaitlin Hickey
    • Lighting Designer
    • Jennifer Swan
    • Stage Manager
    • Sadie Fox
    • Assistant Stage Manager

The Heart of the Matter

  • Hannah Moscovitch Interview
  • Christian Barry Interview
  • Dr Kristin Semmens Interview
  • Dr Robert Oppenheimer Interview

Engagement Events

  • B4Play
  • Saturday, September 9 at 11 am
    Belfry Studio A

    Free Event. A live talk show hosted by CBC Radio’s Gregor Craigie, with guests including playwright Hannah Moscovitch, director Christian Barry, Dr. Kristin Semmens and retired child psychologist Dr. Robert Oppenheimer. B4Play is streamed live on Facebook and also podcast on our website and at soundcloud.com/belfrytheatre.

    Please arrive early - B4Play is very popular.
  • Afterplay
  • Facilitated discussions – audience member to audience member – will follow every evening Mainstage performance of The Children’s Republic (except Opening Night and Talkback Thursday). A great opportunity to share your thoughts and hear fellow patrons’ reactions to the production and the ideas it presents.
  • Talkback Thursday
  • Thursday, September 21
    Meet some of the actors post-performance when they return to the stage to answer questions and provide insight into the play.
  • VocalEye
  • Sunday, October 1 at 2 pm
    For our patrons with low or no vision, we offer this VocalEye performance during The Children’s Republic. Trained Audio Describers provide descriptions of the visual elements of the show, allowing people with low vision to enjoy the theatrical experience without missing any of the details.

Accessible Performances

VOCALEYE – Sunday, October 1 at 2 pm
For our patrons with low or no vision, we offer one VocalEye performance during each Mainstage production. Trained Audio Describers provide descriptions of the visual elements of the show, allowing people with low vision to enjoy the theatrical experience without missing any of the details.

HEARING ASSIST – All performances
For patrons who are hard of hearing, the theatre is equipped with an infra-red hearing assist system. We have 6 devices available through the Box Office.

FREE CHILDCARE PERFORMANCES – Call us at 250-385-6815 for dates
To help parents of young children experience the Belfry, we offer inexpensive tickets and free childcare for young families on select afternoons. To book your tickets and a spot for your kids (between 3–10 years old), please call our Box Office at 250-385-6815.