Eyewitness to History

Held in the gallery throughout the run of State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda, the Eyewitness to History series builds upon the exhibition with intimate programs that facilitate conversation and learning amongst small groups.  Performances in the series explore how Nazi propaganda was received by fictionalized characters through relatable storytelling and powerful portrayals. Pairing these performances with discussion provides an opportunity to remember the experience of those who actually lived through, and died as a result of, coercion and cruelty under the Nazi regime.

Please note: This program is located in the gallery, therefore, exhibit admission is required. An RSVP expresses your interest in the program but doesn’t guarantee at seat. Seating is limited but standing room is available.

About the Performance

Stille Nacht explores the critical decisions of personal belief that confronted many Germany citizens on the eve of Adolf Hitler's appointment as national Chancellor. On December 24, 1932, family patriarch Karl sets aside struggles with Depression-era debt to host a traditional holiday homecoming. His kin gather to Parchim, a rural village of the Mecklenburg region where sentiment for the National Socialist German Workers' Party is on the rise. When Karl's sister, Ilse, arrives from nearby progressive Berlin after an extended family absence, they discuss the pressing national concerns over social class and finance. But their very family bonds are tested when their dispute comes to the NSDAP--the Nazi Party--and whether leader Adolf Hitler is going too far by instituting identity-building propaganda campaigns designed to unite the citizens of Germany by utterly dividing them.

About the Discussion

Gregg Philipson is a former Commissioner at the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission. Before retirement he worked in the technology and security industries for 40 years. Commissioner Philipson is also a collector and lender to State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda. Several of his family members have served in the US military, including his uncle who died in World War II. Commissioner Philipson was able to obtain numerous letters and documents pertaining to his uncle’s service and this effort spurred his lifelong dedication to collecting. He has a passion for using artifacts and exhibitions to further Holocaust education and to fight hate and apathy. 

State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda education programs sponsored by Lisa and Sandy Gottesman.

State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda sponsored by the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Hall Fund and Jeanne and Michael L. Klein. Additional support by The Stanford and Joan Alexander Foundation, the Pearlman Family Foundation, the Friedel Family Foundation, and The Rollins M. and Amalie L. Koppel Foundation.

Support for the Bullock Museum's exhibitions and education programs provided by the Texas State History Museum Foundation.