There’s something uniquely intimate about Wiesenthal at the King’s Head Theatre. Tom Dugan’s portrayal of Simon Wiesenthal, the man who dedicated his life to hunting down Nazi war criminals, is a masterclass in storytelling.
From the moment he addresses us as his final group of visitors, we’re not just audience members – we’re part of his world, sitting across from him as he recounts the stories of his relentless pursuit of justice. And let me tell you, the emotional weight of it all lands in ways I didn’t quite expect.
A masterful portrayal of Simon Wiesenthal’s relentless pursuit of truth.
Dugan’s Wiesenthal is both incredibly human and endlessly fascinating. This isn’t just a history lesson – it’s personal. He brings humour, warmth, and sharp wit to what could have been a harrowing narrative. He lightens the darkest of stories with moments of levity, reminding us that even in the face of unimaginable horror, humanity, in all its complexities, survives.
The minimalist set – a desk, a few books, and the starkness of history itself – perfectly suits the space. It allows the narrative to breathe, and in the intimate setting of the King’s Head Theatre, it feels like you’re right there in his office, listening to him lay bare his life’s work.
From a Queer perspective, this play resonates even more deeply. The Holocaust targeted not only Jews but also Queer people, a history that’s often left untold. Watching Wiesenthal’s dedication to ensuring that no crime is forgotten, no matter how long it takes, reminds me of the Queer lives lost in that same brutal history – lives that often don’t get their own spotlight. There’s something deeply moving in that, knowing Wiesenthal’s fight was for justice for all who suffered, including those silenced by shame, ignorance, and persecution.
Final Thoughts ★★★★★
The King’s Head Theatre, with its intimate atmosphere, is the perfect venue for this play. The close proximity to the stage makes you feel like part of the story rather than just a spectator. Every glance, every gesture is magnified, pulling you deeper into the performance and heightening the emotional impact.
Would I recommend Wiesenthal? Absolutely, without hesitation. It’s a play that not only educates but also makes you feel every part of the weight of justice, memory, and survival from the Holocaust. And for Queer audiences, it’s a powerful reminder of our place in history, a call to remember those whose stories haven’t been told, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This is theatre at its most raw, most real, and most necessary.
Playing at the King’s Head Theatre, until 15 September 2024.
Disclaimer: Ticket was purchased without any association or endorsement from the theatre.
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