In 1943, thirteen-year-old Elli Friedmann lived a normal life with her family and friends, enjoying the luxuries of adolescence from attending school, writing poetry, and dreaming of boys. In 1944, her world was drastically changed as she was ripped from the life she knew and transported on a cattle car to Auschwitz. Her story describes the fear, torture, pain, and suffering of that time and yet embodies immoveable strength, courage, and hope for humanity.

In response to the ever-present reality of discrimination, racism, and intolerance, Stretch Dance Company created a full-length dance production that follows the life of Elli Friedmann as described in her memoir. The historically accurate set designs, costumes, and makeup coupled with an original score and emotionally driven choreography provides a moving, realistic, and educational experience for audiences.

I Have Lived a Thousand Years is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the charitable purposes of I Have Lived a Thousand Years must be made payable to Fractured Atlas only and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.