What the Critics Are Saying About Signs of Life:
A lot of talent and some fine voices are on display in Signs of Life.
- N. Genzlinger, The New York Times
Signs of Life is a beautiful and haunting drama. Stuart Zagnit is heartbreaking ... Erika Amato is exceptional.
- Iris Greenberger, Show Business
The play’s themes of hope and the strength of the human spirit should resonate with everyone. Flawless acting by the entire cast.
- PM Entertainment
With minimal props and an often haunting musical score, a dedicated ensemble earnestly explores what survival means after everything is lost. Jason Collins stands out as the self-serving but supportive cabaret performer, Kurt Gerard. Erika Amato gives a passionate performance as Berta ... her "Home Again Soon," about the suffering Polish children in the camp is one of the most poignant songs. An anthem performed by the company in the finale, ‘Find A Way to Live,’ builds into a rousing harmonic declaration of human spirit. - Elizabeth Ahlfors, Curtain Up
Signs of Life treats this subject matter respectfully, but not solemnly - allowing many different emotions to slip through, not just anger and despair. The writers, Peter Ullian (book), Len Schiff (lyrics) and Joel Derfner (music), acknowledge that even in Terezin there are moments of happiness, love and hope ... Signs of Life brings a unique look at a forgotten period in time. Erika Amato plays Berta, a Jewish wife dumped by her German businessman husband. She wears her emotions openly and sings with a voice that tears at your heart. Her portrayal of Berta is aching. Wilson Bridges as Simon, Lorelei’s love interest, is also an amazing talent. Mr. Bridges’ voice is wonderful and his acting is great. Jeremy Dobrish directs this relatively big show in a small space with expertise, fully taking advantage of the knowledge the audience brings in with them. Particular kudos have to be given to Alexis Distler. Her set designs are beautifully understated and reveal themselves slowly, mirroring the characters’ emotional growth.
- Scott Mitchell, Music OMH
What the Public Is Saying About Signs of Life:
Signs of Life will come and out and grab you in the first scene and will not let go until you jump to your feet for an ovation after the final number. The cast is superb and the production is simply brilliant, but don't take my word for it -- just go see it.- LD, New York Times Reader Review
From the opening scene, until the moving and uplifting finale, Signs of Life is a most remarkable musical drama. This is a play that will stay with you, long after you leave the theater.
- SM, New York Times Reader Review
Not knowing what to expect from a musical about the Holocaust, I was extremely impressed and very much moved by Signs of Life. Some standout performances by the cast, notably the accomplished veteran Stuart Zagnit, delivering a layered, genuine performance in strong, emotive voice, as the caring and selfless grandfather, and the young Patricia Noonan who deftly captivates in the lead, bringing us along on her journey, with a nearly flawless ensemble cast. Creative staging and strong direction by Jeremy Dobrish supported by a beautifully haunting score by Joel Derfner made the play speak with eloquence and dignity. This is what theater does best -- reach us, teach us, and take us there with the actors as they play out their stories with an immediacy and intimacy this little theater venue promotes. It is an experience most satisfying and uniquely human. That ain't just entertainment.
– DiHavens, New York Times Reader Review
We need to remember these stories. Thank God we have this wonderful work of theatre to help us to remember. Thank God for Signs of Life. As a daughter of Holocaust survivors, I thank everyone connected with this show.
- Suzanne Z, New York Times Reader Review
This is a brilliant, compelling, moving, rich and beautiful work. The subject is difficult but one leaves with a deeper understanding of the evil of the Holocaust and a profound emotional reaction to the outstanding cast, acting, and music. If you want theater to move you, increase your understanding, underscore your humanity and live with you forever you should see this program. Five stars.
- Cs, New York Times Reader Review
We were profoundly affected with appreciation for how this topic was so poignantly produced. The music was glorious. The actors/singers had beautiful light opera/musical comedy voices. The ensemble worked well together. The scenery was imaginative and just perfect! This is a production to see, feel and appreciate!
- Ann, Goldstar Member Review
Signs of Life was fabulous. The actors were extremely talented, as were the playwright and lyricist! Having just gotten back from Prague, with a side trip to Terezin, the play just brought me to a higher level of insight as to the entire ordeal. I was brought to tears numerous times during the production. Bravo to everyone who took part in this play.
- Kathi Cohen, Goldstar Member Review
Photo credits: Yancey Hughes (author), Joan Marcus (production)
To order tickets to Signs of Life: A Tale of Terezin, click here.
To visit the Signs of Life website, click here.
To find out more about Signs of Life off-Broadway, click here.
To visit the Signs of Life Facebook page, click here.
To visit Peter Ullian's Website, click here.
To find Peter Ullian's "Fan" Page on Facebook, click here.
To read Signs of Life Lyricist Len Schiff's blog, click here.
To visit Signs of Life composer Joel Derfner's website, click here.
To read Signs of Life composer Joel Derfner's blog, click here.
To visit director Jeremy Dobrish's website, click here.
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