Holocaust Play Finds Laughter in Grief's Shadow

Shards of Laughter presents a unique theatrical exploration of the Holocaust, masterfully blending poignant personal history with moments of unexpected humor. Actor Gabi Lev delivers a compelling solo performance, recounting her family's journey from their roots in 1924 Munkács, a Czechoslovak town with Hungarian heritage, through the harrowing Holocaust years, ultimately arriving in contemporary Australia.

The play opens with Lev granting the audience permission to laugh, immediately setting a tone that acknowledges the complexity of human experience, even amidst immense tragedy. This unconventional approach allows for a fresh engagement with Shoah themes, which can often feel overwhelming or too painful for audiences. Lev's performance is deeply rooted in her family's history, particularly following the passing of her mother, a Holocaust survivor.

Lev's narrative jumps between different time periods, vividly depicting the rich Jewish life between the wars, the improbable story of her parents' survival, and the aftermath of World War II. The play also brings to life the Sydney Holocaust survivor community, populating the stage with characters representing "objects, food, and people from other places." The minimalist set design, featuring a table, props, and a large video screen, effectively supports Lev's mesmerizing and expressive portrayal of her family's past.

A profound moment in the performance includes Lev's recitation of Paul Celan's "Death Fugue," a poem that resonates deeply with the personal losses experienced by many, including the reviewer whose aunt perished in the Holocaust. This shared emotional resonance underscores the play's power to connect with audiences on a deeply human level, honoring the memory of those lost.