Play honouring Athy's Zoltan Zinn Collis takes place next month
The late Zoltan Zinn Collis
A KILDARE school is preparing to stage a moving tribute to one of Athy’s most respected residents, Holocaust survivor Zoltan Zinn Collis, with a special performance of the play , inspired by his extraordinary life story.
The play, written by Naas CBS teacher Tom Noone and performed by students from the school’s drama group, explores Zoltan’s life and harrowing experience in a work camp during the holocaust.
was written originally to enter in a national school drama competition called ‘Class Act’ and came in third place overall.
Zoltan, who passed away in 2020, spent much of his life in Athy, where he became a cherished community member. His legacy continues to resonate across Kildare and beyond.
A number of important guests will attend the performance, including members of Zoltan’s family and individuals connected to the Holocaust as second and third generation survivors, as well as several dignitaries.
Playwright Tom Noone explained that the floor will be open for discussion after the show, allowing guests to speak openly about holocaust remembrance.
Zoltan’s journey — from surviving one of the darkest chapters in human history to becoming a proud Irish citizen and a symbol of resilience — has left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
This production offers the community a chance to reflect on that legacy and honour the lives affected by the Holocaust.
The show will take place in the Moat Theatre in Naas on Thursday 8 May. Tickets will be available to purchase online or at the Moat Theatre in the coming weeks.
