The Investigation: Oratorio in Eleven Cantos

The Investigation is a dramatic re-construction of the Frankfurt War Crimes trials, based on the actual evidence given. This testimony concerning Auschwitz and the atrocities which were enacted there has been edited and extracted by Peter Weiss into a dramatic document that relies solely and completely on the facts for its effectiveness. There is no artistic license, no manipulation of facts and figures, no rearrangement of events for theatrical effect. Nameless witnesses stand and recall their appalling memories of Auschwitz, allowing us to bear witness to their painful and painstaking search for truth and, ultimately, justice. What emerges is a chastening and purging documentary of deeply moving power. The Investigation was premiered on October 19th, 1965, in thirteen theatres in East and West Germany. At the same time, a produced reading was given under Peter Brook at the Aldwych Theatre in London. As with Peter Weiss' The Marot/Sade, productions have mushroomed throughout the world, effectively consolidating a remarkable literary reputation.