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Description
During the German occupation of the Netherlands, Curt Bloch lived in hiding to escape deportation. In secret, he created Onderwater-Cabaret, a handmade magazine of poems that became his personal act of resistance against Nazi oppression. From 1943 to 1945, Bloch produced nearly one hundred issues—works of courage, satire, and creativity that confronted fascist propaganda and affirmed the power of the human spirit.
After Bloch’s death in 1975, his magazines remained largely unnoticed until his granddaughter rediscovered them and began extensive research. Her work led to a published volume tracing their history and artistic sources and helped spark new interest in Bloch’s life and legacy. Around the same time, his daughter reached out to German designer and author Thilo von Debschitz (Theo), who collaborated with an international team to create a digital archive offering broad access to the magazines and poems. This collaboration also helped reestablish a connection with the Jewish Museum Berlin, which now houses the original journals and recently opened the exhibition “My verses are like dynamite – Curt Bloch’s Het Onderwater Cabaret.”
In the days surrounding International Holocaust Remembrance Day, CRS invites you to experience an immersive, all-day walk-through art installation inspired by Onderwater-Cabaret. The exhibition will be open throughout the day for self-guided exploration.
There will be two opportunities to hear a presentation and Q&A with Simone Bloch, Curt Bloch’s daughter, joined by Theo von Debschitz, who developed the digital archive and worked closely with the family to bring Bloch’s work back into public view. Together, they will share insights into Curt Bloch’s life, the rediscovery of his journals, and the contemporary efforts to preserve and elevate his story.
Together, we will reflect on the power of art as resistance and the enduring importance of memory.
Date & Time
Thu, Jan 22, 2026 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue Details
Congregation Rodeph Sholom
7 West 83rd StreetNew York, New York 10024
