Based on Władysław Szpilman’s internationally bestselling memoir, the true story behind the Oscar-winning film, this landmark world-premiere musical tells of the celebrated Polish-Jewish pianist and composer whose life was torn apart by the Nazi occupation of Warsaw. Adapted and directed by Thom Southerland, it is the first stage telling to be built around Szpilman’s own music.
Warsaw, on the eve of the Second World War, is a city alive with music, and Szpilman is one of its brightest stars, a virtuoso pianist whose songs fill the radio and the cafes of a vibrant cultural world. When the occupation destroys that world, he is forced into a desperate fight for survival amid the ruins of everything he loved. Through hunger, hiding and unimaginable loss, it is music that keeps him alive, and one unexpected act of humanity that offers a fragile hope. Newly arranged and orchestrated by Simon Lee, the score restores the popular songs that once had Warsaw humming and sets them against the story of their creator’s endurance. The production deals directly with the Holocaust and is staged with care and gravity.
Why it’s worth the watch
A remarkable true story of survival, and of art outlasting catastrophe.
- A landmark world premiere. The first stage telling of Szpilman’s memoir, the same story as the Oscar-winning film.
- His own music. Built around Szpilman’s compositions, the songs that made him the “Polish Gershwin”, newly orchestrated by Simon Lee.
- A live pianist on stage. The score is anchored by live piano at the heart of the drama.
- Award-winning direction. Adapted and directed by Thom Southerland, acclaimed for Titanic the Musical.
- An intimate staging. An epic, deeply moving human story told up close at Park Theatre.
