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Gallery 7 Theatre in Abbotsford presents Irena's Vow

Production opens Jan. 24 at Abbotsford Arts Centre
irenas-vow
Gerry Thom and Patricia Braun perform in Gallery 7 Theatre's production of Irena's Vow, which opens Jan. 24 in Abbotsford.

Gallery 7 Theatre in Abbotsford presents its latest production, Irena's Vow, from Jan. 24 to Feb. 1 at the Abbotsford Arts Centre (2329 Crescent Way).

The play, written by Dan Gordon, is based on the true story of Irena Gut Opdyke and her mission to protect Jews from execution during the Second World War.

“Audiences are in for a real thriller of a show,” said Ken Hildebrandt, managing artistic director of Gallery 7 Theatre.

“Irena’s Vow is unrelenting in that it doesn’t hold back on examining the atrocities and horrors of war that were occurring across 1930s Europe. However, at the heart of the play is a truly inspiring, if not humbling, story of incredible bravery demonstrated by a teenaged (girl) dedicated to fighting the evil of her time.”

At the height of the German occupation of Poland, Irena Gut is promoted to housekeeper of a high-ranking Nazi officer.

When she discovers the Jewish ghetto is to be expunged, she decides to shelter 12 Jewish workers in the basement of the commander’s house.

Over the next two years, Irena uses her wit and humour while summoning all the strength and courage she can muster to conceal her friends in the shadow of house parties, a blackmail scheme and the birth of a child. 

“Irena’s Vow has been on my list of plays to produce for many years now, and I’m thrilled to finally include it in our lineup,” Hildebrandt said. “This show promises to be an extraordinary and fulfilling theatre experience."

The role of Irena Gut Opdyke will be played by Patricia Braun, who last performed as Judith in Gallery 7 Theatre’s Canadian premiere of Snowbound.

The role of Major Rugermer will be played by Gerry Thom, while Annie Lewis will play Ida Hallar. Andrew Potts will play her husband, Lazar Hallar.

Rounding out the cast and playing multiple roles are Jessica Blanchard, Brittany Holman, Eli Hughes, Laura Kehler and Marc Chrétien.

Directing Irena’s Vow is Stephen Wilhite, a UFV theatre graduate and current drama teacher.

"As we share this remarkable story of hope, resilience, and moral courage, I hope the audience not only finds themselves entertained but also transformed by the profound impact of one person’s ability to make a difference in the darkest of times," he said.

Irena's Vow will plays Jan. 24, 25 and 28 and Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Jan. 25 and Feb. 1 at 2 p.m.

Tickets and more information are available at gallery7theatre.com.

 

 

 

 



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