Imagine being a teenager, bursting with talent and promise, just as your world starts falling apart. That’s the story behind Gideon, a brand-new play with music that’s heading to Bradford Cathedral this April. If you’ve ever wondered what role art plays in a crisis—or if creativity can be a form of resistance—this show has a few things to say.
Set against the backdrop of 1930s Prague, this play follows Gideon Klein, a real-life composer whose music almost disappeared forever. But thanks to a determined group of artists, his story is being brought to life in a haunting, moving, and honestly quite powerful way.
A composer nearly erased by history
Before everything went sideways, Gideon Klein was that kid—you know the one. The piano prodigy. The bright spark. Already making waves in Prague’s music scene by the time he was in his teens. But then came 1938, and with it, Nazi occupation. Gideon was Jewish, and life as he knew it began to close in fast.
The play traces his journey from sold-out concert halls to Terezín, a walled garrison town that the Nazis turned into a bizarre mix of prison and PR stunt. They used it to show the world how “well” they treated Jewish people—while behind the scenes, it was a pit stop to the concentration camps.
Inside Terezín, Gideon kept writing. He kept composing. He organised secret concerts. His music became a lifeline—not just for him, but for others. The show asks: Was that art a rebellion, a way to cope, or part of the lie the Nazis used to keep people quiet?
The cast bringing Gideon’s story to life
Directed by Sue Dunderdale, the play has a strong lineup of talent:
- Max Gallagher plays Gideon. You might know him from War Horse or Home Fires.
- Rebecca Scroggs takes on multiple roles, including Ilona and Fran, and also serves as Assistant Director. She’s been in everything from EastEnders to The Suicide at the National Theatre.
- Rosie Hilal (yep, she was in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) plays Lisa.
- Alastair Michael, recently seen in Silent Witness, plays Gustav and Jakob.
- Plus, JJ Welles lends their voice as the mysterious “Voice”.
And the music? It’s not just a backing track. A live chamber ensemble led by Chris Emerson from The Hallé Orchestra is right there on stage, playing pieces by Gideon Klein and others who inspired him. Musicians include Tomek Pieczora, Elana Kenyon-Gewirtz, and Caroline Morris.
Where and when you can catch it
Here’s the lowdown:
- Bradford Cathedral: 3rd–5th April 2025 (as part of Bradford City of Culture)
- Touring to Chester, Wilmslow, Laxton, and Manchester: 8th–12th April
You can grab tickets at gideonplay.co.uk.
Not just another Holocaust story
Let’s be real—stories from this era aren’t easy. But Gideon doesn’t shy away from the harsh stuff. There are references to genocide, antisemitism, death, and violence, so be ready. But this isn’t about rehashing history. It’s about what it means today.
The play’s creators—Richard Fay and Daniel Mawson—have taken the biography Don’t Forget About Me by David Fligg and added something new. Mawson wrote an original script, and the team of eight actors and musicians brings it to life in a way that feels raw and real.
The big question they pose is: In a world that’s constantly arguing about identity, belief, and truth—what do we do with stories like Gideon’s? Do we listen, remember, or scroll past?
Co-production with a lot of heart
This isn’t a glitzy West End show with endless funding. It’s a co-production between Modalways CIC, Bradford Cathedral, and Bradford Reform Synagogue. It’s funded by Arts Council England, which means it’s got a community at its core.
And honestly, you can feel that. It’s the kind of show where every person involved wants to tell this story—because they believe it matters.
So, why should you go?
Maybe you’re a fan of theatre. Maybe you’re into history. Maybe you just want to hear some beautiful, heartbreaking music. Whatever the reason, Gideon is more than just a play. It’s a memory brought back to life. And in a world where so much gets forgotten, that feels pretty important.
Want to explore more? Check out the Bradford Cathedral website for opening times, events, and more. Oh, and if you’re planning a visit—don’t miss their Morris & Co. stained glass. It’s stunning.
