Dr Korczak's Example by David Greig

"Set in the final, numbered, days of an orphanage in the Warsaw ghetto in 1942. Based on real events, this 'Brechtian' retelling generates an almost unbearable power and pathos through the simple humanity, warts and all, of the central characters who are trapped both by the inexorable forces of Nazi oppression and by our fore-knowledge of the fate that awaits them. The play's 'alienation' device of depicting its characters through the use of dolls, further enhances our painful feeling of powerlessness. Yet, in spite of its tragic outcome, Dr Korczak's Example, like the real life of its protagonist, leaves us exhilarated and uplifted by the indomitable power of love."
Hugh Hodgart, Head of Acting at RSAMD, Glasgow

Customer review

"Dr Korczak's example is to appeal to the good in humankind and not to resort to aggression when faced with the most terrible oppression. Central to the story is Adzio, a sullen and cynical street urchin, surviving on his wits in a Nazi patrolled Jewish ghetto. Although opposites, Adzio and the doctor are of the same coin: they have a common enemy.

It seems apt that David Greig was commissioned by TAG to write for a tour of schools about the great, and still controversial, educator, Janusz Korczak. Although the play has a specific target audience it is a challenging piece of work for an audience of any age.

The play is written as a three-hander (2M/1F) but there are nine characters. Greig suggests the use of dolls for the other characters, adding a Brechtian distancing technique to this modern work. (A point that could be considered in the classroom is the influence or relevance of Bertie's theatre today.) The number of actors used is flexible, though, and open to experimentation.

This play fits in perfectly with the Contemporary Scottish section of the Higher Drama syllabus and is a breath of fresh air in what is in danger of becoming a stale area. It is a play of dark beauty.
Roy McGregor, Teacher of Drama, St Paul's High School, Glasgow

More information

These notes have been provided by TAG Theatre Company and can be downloaded free of charge.
Dr Korczak's Example Resource Booklet
Resource booklet with background and practical drama-based approach to exploring the themes of the play (407 KB)

Dr Korczak's Example Image Cards 1
Image cards to accompany the resource booklet (295 KB)

Dr Korczak's Example Image Cards 2
Image cards to accompany the resource booklet (705 KB)

ISBN: 0-9545206-1-0, 9780954520618
Price: £3.99