The Silver Sword

This emotionally involving play combines a sweeping narrative and tumultuous historical events – occupied Europe in World War Two, and the eventual crumbling of Hitler's Third Reich – with a simple, immutable truth: that even in the ruin and chaos of war and oppression, the human spirit will triumphantly prevail. Based on a wonderful novel, the stage adaptation captures the essence of a story of survival against the odds, as the lost children of a Polish schoolmaster (who has himself managed to outwit his captors) embark on a breathtaking and perilous journey across the landscape of war-ravaged Europe to be re-united finally with their father in Switzerland. Along the way the children live by their wits, their instinct for self-preservation, and their unshakeable faith in the future. They encounter a range of dangerous situations, but discover humanity and kindness too as the armies of Russia and the Allies close in on fortress Germany. Their journey is truly remarkable, and all the while their link to the past – and their longing for what might be – is embedded in a family heirloom: a small letter opener, resembling a "silver sword", that passes through many hands, and which becomes a symbol of their endurance and their hope in a world that has truly lost its moral compass. Performed by a large cast of students in Years 7-9, this play will engage both your head and heart, and is a truly moving and inspiring piece of theatre. Evenings at 7.00pm June 15 | 17 Evenings at 6.30pm June 16 Adult $20.00 | Concession $10.00 Adamson Theatre, Wesley College St Kilda Road