The Performance Official Trailer

In 1930s Berlin, Harold May, an American Jewish tap dancer, accepts an extraordinary offer to perform one show in a city teetering on tyranny.  But when the performance takes a deadly turn, Harold must decide which will win the night: his own humanity or the show of a lifetime.

Based on the short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Arthur Miller.

New York City, 1937.  Harold May is a gifted but unlucky tap dancer who, along with his troupe, Carol, Benny, and Paul are discouraged that they’re still performing on small, insignificant stages after so many years of hard work. Hoping their act will stand out abroad, they tour the Balkans, where an outstanding performance draws the attention of a well-dressed, wealthy German patron of the arts, Mr. Fugler. Funny, charming, and a little weird, Fugler is very enthusiastic about the troupe’s dancing.

A dream come true for Harold, he can hardly contain his excitement. But Benny has big doubts. Harold’s Jewish. Benny reminds him that Jews are fleeing Germany, not trying to get in. It’s not safe.  But with American hubris, Harold prides himself on his lifelong ability to pass as a gentile.

Lured by a big payday and Fugler’s promise that they’ll be in and out in 24 hours, the troupe puts aside their misgivings and fears. In Berlin, to their astonishment, they are treated as dignitaries, lodged in a fine hotel, served a magnificent meal, their every need being met. In the theatre at showtime, waiting in the wings, Harold realizes Fugler never answered his question about the identity of the special guest. When Fugler strides into the nightclub wearing his Nazi uniform for the first time, Harold realizes what he suspected – they would be dancing for Adolf Hitler.

Panicked, they discuss fleeing, but Harold can’t bear to let this chance slip away despite his Jewish heritage. Now, he must face his enemy with the best performance of his life.