In times of hardship and pain, what are our values? How do we keep the flame of hope alive? How far will one go to protect what matters?
The Pianist of Willesden Lane is a beautiful and deeply moving family story told through the power of classical music. In this one-woman show, concert pianist Mona Golabek takes the audience on the journey of her mother’s extraordinary life from escaping the Nazi occupation of Vienna to becoming a concert pianist in wartime London. It is a voyage marked by musical pieces from famous composers such as Chopin and Beethoven, to name a few. The music serves to highlight the drama of the story, the connection of music to humanity, and to bring beauty among turmoil and chaos.
Ms. Golabek plays the role of her mother, Lisa Jura. In the beginning, Lisa is a young Viennese teenager taking music lessons and dreaming of becoming a concert pianist. When the violence and oppression against the Jews escalate, her parents make the painful decision to send her away. She is sent to London by the Kindertransport, the mission to send children of European Jews to England for safety from the Nazis. Her family reminds her to continue with her piano lessons and to always remember her family through the music. Lisa finds refuge in a large hostel on Willesden Lane in London and takes comfort with a piano. The music keeps memories of her family alive even when she no longer receives news from them. The piano is Lisa’s life link to all she holds dear and to her dreams for the future. She perseveres in spite of the war.
Ms. Golabek’s tender portrayal brings not only great respect, but also dignity to the challenges her mother endured. Ms. Golabek’s stirring piano performances reveal the fragility and ultimate strength of hope and courage. The music pieces highlight the action that she recounts. The story, the music, and a loving daughter are all that is needed for a show like this.
The set is simple with a Steinway piano as the centre piece. The stage is surrounded by Baroque style picture frames that display photos or films. The lighting conveys a sense of the tense dark atmosphere of the time. This uncomplicated production supports and does not distract from the power of the story. The show delivers a full and enriching experience without the unnecessary bells and whistles.
Indeed, surviving horrific events requires courage and resourcefulness. But other qualities are important, as well. A purpose for survival, a meaning greater than the self, are needed to remind us of what it is to be alive and to be human.
Photo credit: Courtesy of Hershey Felder Presents
The Pianist of Willesden Lane. Adapted and Directed by Hershey Felder. Show continues until September 29, at Segal Centre, 5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montreal. Call the box office 514-739-7944 or go to www.segalcentre.org
