The article discusses the play Here There Are Blueberries, now showing at Detroit Public Theatre. Written by Moisés Kaufman and Amanda Gronich, the production explores a photo album from Auschwitz that appears to document the lives of SS officers, rather than the Jewish victims. The play raises questions about the awareness of those involved in the Holocaust as curators attempt to identify the individuals in the photographs. The narrative highlights the disconnect many have regarding the actions of their ancestors.
The title refers to a chilling photo caption of SS women enjoying blueberries near the camp. The play provokes a deep emotional response, drawing parallels between historical events and current societal issues, including the ongoing genocide in Palestine and ICE’s actions regarding immigrants. Director Amy Marie Seidel emphasizes the power of art to inspire reflection and action against apathy.
The reviewer expresses profound grief while watching, remarking on the need for spaces to process such intense emotions post-performance. The article underscores the unsettling nature of confronting historical atrocities amid today’s political climate of fascism and totalitarianism. The play runs until November 2.
