Under Katyń – A Powerful New Play and Exhibition

Under Katyń. This is a Copernicana and Firstlight Theatre joint production, staged at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 11 – 15 July 2023.

Preview

Under Katyń is a new play about the Katyń crimes committed by Russia on Poland in 1940. It's a story of hope and reconciliation, of secrets and surprises in the aftermath of war.

The story tells of a refugee searching for his brother who vanished during the Russian invasion of Poland in 1939. Based on a true story, this poignant drama sees a chance meeting of once deadly enemies. Long hidden secrets are revealed, forgiveness and reconciliation are in the characters’ grasp. Hard truths are told and the lives of two families are changed forever.

Under Katyń is written by Danny Masewicz and draws on his search for his family in Poland and Russia. He made astonishing discoveries that are the heart of this play.

The production is a tribute to those who lost their lives in the Katyń forest crimes and whose bodies were discovered eighty years ago.

The play will be accompanied by an exhibition, depicting the history of the Katyń massacre.

‘Under Katyń’ is brought to life by a stellar cast and production team. It is an independent co-production, in English, by firstlight and Copernicana CIC. The cast are: Mark Spriggs, Pamela Hickson, Ania Bhatia, Elliot Gear, Danny Masewicz and Lily Skinner.

The Production crew are: Director: Danny Masewicz, Stage Manager: Emma Beasley, Lighting and Sound: Richard Ball, original Set Design Kate Wiltshire and costumes: Jacqui Campbell.

The team are proud to be supported by the Polish Cultural Institute and Stratford Town Trust.

The production team have put together a series of podcasts that tell the backstory behind this production. View them here here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klbhSrw11BY

For tickets visit https://www.thebearpit.org.uk/ or call the Box Office 01789 333935.