Wiesenthal, King’s Head Theatre Review
Written by Bronagh for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
Age recommendation – 14+
Wiesenthal is the true story of Simon Wiesenthal, a humorous and noble man who devoted his life to ensuring Nazi war criminals were brought to justice. Wiesenthal is spending his last working day tirelessly to pin down one last war criminal whom he thinks he may have tracked down. While he waits for a call back he addresses his group – us as an audience – where he thinks back on his eventful life. This ranges from his time living and working in concentration camps, his family life with his beloved wife and daughter, as well as his decision not to return to Israel.
We meet Simon on his final day in office, where he is sat at his desk with a homely sunflower plant and a map of Europe pinned onto the wall, coat and hat hanging on a peg, book-filled bookcases scattered around. His desk is adorned with pictures of his daughter and grandchildren, who he adores. I am a sucker for a set that I can actually imagine being used whether in a personal or professional sense, so seeing this instantly put Wiesenthal onto a good start.
The story behind Wiesenthal is remarkable and it is undoubtedly amazing that this is the true story of a man who accomplished so much, so soon after being liberated from a concentration camp. The pace was nice and steady, not too overcomplicated in the slightest despite the difficult content, carefully handling personal moments and politics alike.
There were times when Christopher C Gibbs, playing Simon Wiesenthal, addressed the audience as if we were visitors to his office asking questions and asking us to respond to his wife on the telephone. These little humorous moments are a great addition, helping to soften the extremely serious topic at stake. The use of sound is also a great addition, with threatening voice messages being played to the audience, helping us to understand the fear of Wiesenthal and his wife.
Christopher C Gibbins veers wonderfully between very witty, fearless and determined in one amazing performance. This is a man who doesn’t just want justice for the millions of people murdered but demands it and works hard for it for many years. Gibbins performance is compelling and marvellous, one that I am sure Wiesenthal himself would have applauded.
Wiesenthal is a fitting tribute for an extraordinary gentleman, who history must never forget. This is a great addition to the Kings Head Theatre’s repertoire, and I certainly do recommend getting yourself down to the theatre’s new home in Islington Square to catch this marvel.
At the Kings Head Theatre until 15th September 2024.
★ ★ ★ ★
