Schools across the borough are getting ready to mark Holocaust Memorial Day, the borough’s annual multi-faith remembrance day for victims of genocide.
Lewisham’s unique programme uses drama and performance to teach children about the experiences and impacts of genocide and focuses on this year’s theme the Dignity of Difference.
Pupils from John Stainer, Ashmead, Fairlawn, Rushey Green, Brockley and Brindishe primaries as well as Watergate special school will perform readings, songs, drama and dance.
Children from Ashmead, Fairlawn and Watergate schools are using Shakespeare’s the Taming of the Shrew to consider gender difference.
The group are being given exclusive access to London’s Globe theatre, the home of Shakespeare, for rehearsals.
And pupils at Brindishe are working with Rachel Levi, a Czech Jewish Holocaust survivor, to re-enact her life as a drama.
Crofton and Stillness schools are working on the “dignity of difference” using music.
Months of preparation by the children will culminate in a Young People’s Theatre Production at the Broadway Theatre on January 28.
The show will finish with a candle lighting ceremony in memory of all victims of genocide, whatever their faith.
On January 27 a multi-faith service will be held at Catford Synagogue from 12 noon until 1pm.
Councillor Sylvia Scott, chair of Lewisham’s Holocaust Working Party, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is a day to remember victims of genocide and persecution wherever they live and whatever their faith.
“This year’s theme recognises that we should embrace the differences between people and cultures and not make it an excuse for exclusion.
“Lewisham Council is committed to marking this event each year and we view it as an opportunity to unite communities against hatred and persecution."