Irena's Vow
by Dan Gordon
Abbotsford Arts Centre

At the height of the German occupation of Poland, Irena Gut is promoted to housekeeper of a high-ranking Nazi officer.
When she discovers the Jewish ghetto is to be expunged, she decides to shelter twelve Jewish workers in the basement of the Commander’s house. Over the next two years, Irena uses her wit & humour while summoning all the strength and courage she can muster to conceal her friends in the shadow of house parties, a blackmail scheme, and the birth of a child.
A powerful true story of compassion, grace and tenacity, this unrelenting story of hope in the midst of the atrocities of war will inspire!
Performance Information
Running time
90 minutes, with no intermission
Location
Abbotsford Arts Centre
2329 Crescent Way, Abbotsford
Showtimes
January 24 & 25, 28 – Feb. 1, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
Matinees: January 25 & Feb 1 @ 2:00 PM
Content Warning
Age Recommendation
Recommended for ages 16 & up.
Content Warning
Contains graphic descriptions of war and violence, mature themes, and suggestive scenes.
A transcendent tale of courage and inspiration for our tumultuous times
—Deborah Barrow, Women on the Web
The emotions this stage biography stirs in theatergoers are genuine, a testament to the bravery and tenacity of the woman whose real-life story is being told. Irena's Vow serves as a compelling, heartfelt reminder of her incredible courage
—Associated Press
…engrossing and enlivening
—Variety
Awe-inspiring, with enough dramatic moments to keep you on the edge of your seat. Dan Gordon’s script is effective at gleaning the drama and ethical imperatives in Irena’s tale, yet he punctuates them with occasional comic moments to cut the unending terror
—Huffington Post
Compelling true story of courage and heroism. An engrossing tale laced with suspense, horror and uplifting humanity
—Daily Variety
Video
Meet the Cast
Cast

Patricia Braun
Irena Guk Opdyke

Gerry Thom
Major Rugermer
Annie Lewis
Ida Hallar

Jessica Blanchard
Fanka Silberman
Eli Hughes
Sturmbannfuhrer Rokita

Brittany Holman
Helen, Rokita's Secretary, Ensemble

Laura Kehler
Schultz, Ensemble

Marc Chretien
Roman, SS Officer, Ensemble
Artistic Team

Stephen Wilhite
Director

Sheldon Jeans
Set Designer

Emily Krahn
Costume Designer

Gabe Kirkley
Lighting Designer

Sarah Green
Sound Designer

Dianna Lewis
Props Designer

Brenna Tinworth
Make-Up & Hair Designer

Phay Moores
Intimacy Coordinator

Lisa Patetta
Stage Manager

Lauren Dyck
Assistant Stage Manager