Intense and riveting! Last night we attended a performance of Taking Sides at the Levis JCC Sandler Center. The award-winning drama by Ronald Harwood opened on Broadway in October 1996. The play is a fictionalized account of the real life post-war investigation in 1946 into German conductor Wilhelm Furtwangler. Did he actually help Jewish musicians escape Germany or support the Third Reich during the height of the war?
The play explores the themes of courage, justice and liberty. The lead actor Jeffrey Bruce does an excellent job of portraying the emotions of Wilhelm Furtwangler, a proud man defending himself against a relentless foe. Tony Rein is passionate in his role as Major Steve Arnold, a man determined to convict the conductor of war crimes. Their story takes place in Major Arnold’s office in the American Zone of occupied Berlin. Be aware this play contains very strong language.
Taking Sides was presented in association with Chicken Coop Theatre and in partnership with Next Generations. Next Generations is a non profit dedicated to promoting holocaust education and ensuring the well being of survivors in need. The Chicken Coop Theatre has a full spring season including Rock of Stages; Grease; and Love, Loss and What I Wore. Call 561-558-2512 for tickets.
