UPDATE: The extraordinary life of Holocaust survivor Eddie Jaku will be brought to life on stage at the Sydney Opera House from May 12-17, 2024. This urgent theatrical adaptation of Jaku’s memoir, The Happiest Man on Earth, promises to resonate deeply with audiences as it reflects on themes of resilience and hope.
Adapted by acclaimed playwright Mark St Germain and performed by Anton Berezin, this production is not just a recounting of Jaku’s harrowing experiences during the Holocaust but also a powerful message about choosing happiness against the odds. Jaku’s journey began in Germany, where he was born as Abraham Jakubowicz in 1920. His life changed forever on Kristallnacht in November 1938, when he was violently arrested for being Jewish.
Jaku endured unimaginable suffering, surviving both Buchenwald and Auschwitz, before escaping during a death march and being rescued by Allied forces in 1945. For decades, he remained silent about his trauma until later in life when he felt compelled to share his story. His memoir, published in his late 90s, became an international bestseller, inspiring countless readers.
As Jaku himself stated, “Happiness is a choice.” This philosophy is central to both his memoir and the stage adaptation, encouraging individuals to rise above hate and embrace gratitude. His influence extended beyond his writing; he became a prominent educator in Australia, regularly addressing schoolchildren and community groups about the importance of combating prejudice and fostering compassion.
In announcing the production, Rabbi Alon Meltzer of the Shalom Collective emphasized the relevance of Jaku’s message today, especially in light of recent events, including the antisemitic terror attack in Bondi. “This piece of theatre was always going to be a needed piece on Australia’s grandest stage,” Meltzer stated. “Eddie was a local hero, a giant of a personality.”
Even after his passing in 2021, Jaku’s legacy endures, urging people to express love and combat hatred. He left audiences with a poignant reminder: “Tell your parents you love them.”
As The Happiest Man on Earth returns to Sydney, it serves as a continuation of Jaku’s mission, showcasing that even in the darkest times, hope and light can prevail. Tickets for this significant production are available now at sydneyoperahouse.com.
Don’t miss this chance to witness a powerful story of survival and positivity that continues to shape conversations around compassion and resilience in today’s world.
