The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities and Chabad of Northwest Metro Denver invite you to hear Osi’s extraordinary story of survival, tragedy, and hope shown on screen and followed by a live Q&A with Osi Sladek.

Featuring a special presentation: Music from the Holocaust A musical ensemble of Holocaust era melodies by the Rocky Mountain String Quartet.

About Osi Sladek:

During World War II, the Staub family—mother Irene, father Frici, and their young son Oskar— fled into the Tatra mountains to escape Nazi forces and their Slovak collaborators. Stripped of their home, possessions, and identity, they faced brutal conditions to survive. Young Oskar, in particular, showed remarkable resilience as he navigated the physical and emotional challenges of this perilous journey. 

Set against the backdrop of Slovakia’s collapse and the Allies’ victory over Germany, Oskar Sladek’s story is a moving testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the enduring impact of the Holocaust.

Today, Sladek lives in Denver. He has been speaking about his story of survival for more than 40 years.

"I always tell young people don't hate. Don't learn how to hate, because it's going to kill you in the end," he said. "That's one lesson I share with most young people."

Osi Sladek will be signing copies of his memoir Escape to the Tatras before the event from 6:00– 6:50 pm.

About Osi Sladek

During World War II, the Staub family—mother Irene, father Frici, and their young son Oskar— fled into the Tatra mountains to escape Nazi forces and their Slovak collaborators. Stripped of their home, possessions, and identity, they faced brutal conditions to survive. Young Oskar, in particular, showed remarkable resilience as he navigated the physical and emotional challenges of this perilous journey. Set against the backdrop of Slovakia’s collapse and the Allies’ victory over Germany, Oskar Sladek’s story is a moving testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the enduring impact of the Holocaust.