A musical theatre premiere in Tallahassee later this month covers themes of antisemitism and LGBTQ+ individuals during the Holocaust.
The Secrets We Keep was developed by writer and director Danielle Wirsansky, a Jewish Israeli immigrant and PhD candidate at Florida State University.
"When I was trying to write a research proposal for this, I wanted to find memoirs of queer victims of the Holocaust. And if I did, it was almost only men and no women," Wirsansky says. "So I thought this was a really great opportunity in a small way to highlight those stories, too.”
The musical draws inspiration from historical events while highlighting the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who faced persecution, discrimination, and violence.
The group behind the show is White Mouse Theatre Productions, a student organization that started at FSU in 2016. Wirsansky is the founding artistic director. The group's shows are separate from FSU School of Theatre productions.
After its Tallahassee run at the FSU Lab Theatre, the show will grace a New York stage for a week.
“We found an Off Broadway space that was available just the times that we needed it that we could afford," Wirsansky says. "They were really gracious to work with -- the American Theatre for Actors. And we decided if we're going to New York, why not go all the way Off Broadway? Because we really believe in the work that we're doing.”
But first, The Secrets We Keep can be seen at the FSU Lab Theatre at 502 S. Copeland St. from April 25 - 27. The show is approximately two hours long with intermission. Click here for tickets. Click here for more information about White Mouse Theatre Productions.
Click LISTEN above to hear more of the interview.
Here's the news release about the production:
Audiences in Tallahassee are in for a theatrical treat as "The Secrets We Keep," a groundbreaking musical, takes the stage at the Lab Theatre at Florida State University from April 25-27.
Developed by writer/director Danielle Wirsansky through the prestigious Elie Wiesel Social Action Fellowship, this compelling production aims to challenge laws censoring and reshaping historical memory and narratives of the Holocaust.
Inspired by the need to counter laws that distort and censor historical truths, "The Secrets We Keep" delves into the intersecting experiences of Jewish and non-Jewish communities during one of humanity's darkest periods. While drawing inspiration from historical events, the musical specifically highlights the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who faced persecution, discrimination, and violence during the Holocaust.
"We're thrilled to bring 'The Secrets We Keep' to Tallahassee," Izzie Abrahamson, Artistic Director of White Mouse Productions. "This production serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving historical truth and honoring the experiences of marginalized communities."
Collaborating with esteemed organizations such as Valley Beit Midrash, the Holocaust Education Resource Council, and Congregation Shomrei Torah, "The Secrets We Keep" brings together a talented cast and crew dedicated to amplifying voices that have long been marginalized in historical discourse.
Through live performances and educational materials, the production provides opportunities for engagement and dialogue about censorship of Holocaust history and LGBTQ+ history, fostering greater understanding and empathy.
After its successful run in Tallahassee, “The Secrets We Keep” will make its Off-Broadway debut at American Theatre for Actors in May 2024, marking a significant milestone for the production. Audiences in Tallahassee will have the opportunity to experience this powerful and thought-provoking musical before it heads to New York City.
Tickets for "The Secrets We Keep" are available now at www.ticketsource.us/white-mouse-theatre-productions. Don't miss your chance to witness this groundbreaking production that is sure to leave a lasting impact.
About White Mouse Productions: White Mouse Productions is an award-winning trailblazing theatre company committed to leveraging the power of storytelling to inspire social change. Through thought-provoking performances and innovative productions, the company aims to foster empathy, provoke dialogue, and challenge societal norms. Recognized for its impactful contributions to the arts and social justice, White Mouse Productions continues to push the boundaries of traditional theatre while amplifying marginalized voices and confronting pressing social issues.
