The Last Battalion of Children

by Ben Scranton

80 -90 min. In a dream world of nightmarish realism and recurring memory an elderly Nazi physician revisits his past. Haunted by spirits seeking accountability for in his role in the Holocaust, he attempts to justify his actions. When confronted by the spirit of one of his young victims, his daughter, and grandson he is forced to come to terms with his wartime activity. The characters battle to the end...

80 -90 min. In a dream world of nightmarish realism and recurring memory an elderly Nazi physician revisits his past. Haunted by spirits seeking accountability for in his role in the Holocaust, he attempts to justify his actions. When confronted by the spirit of one of his young victims, his daughter, and grandson he is forced to come to terms with his wartime activity. The characters battle to the end, unable to forget or move forward.

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The Last Battalion of Children

Recommended by

  • The Depot for New Play Readings: The Last Battalion of Children by Ben Scranton
    “

    Ben Scranton’s superb “The Last Battalion of Children” is set in the nightly dream of a former Nazi doctor. In this realm where anything may occur, visions of victims and family confront the doctor with his crimes. Lyrical monologues combined with the suspense of a courtroom drama raise emotions to a pitch. The fabulous dialog is never marred by a weak line, and the imagery is pinpoint. A powerful exploration of guilt that engages the intellect and the heart in equal measure. Highly recommended.

    Ben Scranton’s superb “The Last Battalion of Children” is set in the nightly dream of a former Nazi doctor. In this realm where anything may occur, visions of victims and family confront the doctor with his crimes. Lyrical monologues combined with the suspense of a courtroom drama raise emotions to a pitch. The fabulous dialog is never marred by a weak line, and the imagery is pinpoint. A powerful exploration of guilt that engages the intellect and the heart in equal measure. Highly recommended.

    ”
Old man (60+), Girl (15-18), Boy (10-12), Daughter (40's), Woman (40+)

Production History

  • University, Westfield University, Westfield, MA, 2003
  • Workshop, The Drama Studio, Springfield MA, 2002

Awards

  • Fellowship in Dramatic Writing
    The Massachusetts Cultural Council
    Winner
    1997