AMERICAN THEATRE: At a time when many marginalized groups in the U.S. face intensified violence or discrimination—Latinx communities, immigrants from Muslim-majority countries, LGBTQ+ folks, disabled people—another group with a long history of persecution feels the threat from an administration that has winked at white supremacists and neo-Nazis: Jewish Americans. In the theatre, while many historically marginalized groups have made strides in terms of representation on U.S. stages, shows with Jewish themes seem to have had a fresh urgency and relevance in recent years.
2 comments:
This article pulls apart three new works which have risen to popularity partially due to the rise of antisemitism in this country following the 2016 election. My favorite thing about this article is that it talks about the history of Jewish plays. I think it is great to have plays about specific groups and their struggles, but I really admire that most Jewish plays aren't specifically about Judaism, but rather focus on generally what it is to be oppressed and how this effects people generation after generation. These works are so important right now as every single minority is under fire because of the current administration. Whether or not one believes that Trump himself is racist, sexist, or antisemitic is not important. It is undeniable that our president is tolerant of racism, xenophobia, sexism, antisemitism, ect... The problem does not lie with one person. We are lying to ourselves and making a mistake if we put all the blame on one individual's rhetoric. Hate was already and has always been present in this country, tolerance of that hate is the only reason there is a rise in it now. It is important for us to create plays like this, to elect the right people, to openly condemn hate in order for this country to get better.
This piece really spoke to me, especially following the tragedy of this past weekend. As a member of the Jewish community, I have always searched for my representation in the media. My parents always sought to bring home foreign films that help me understand my history. They are both Argentinian and Jewish, and they wanted me to be proud of both. This past summer I saw the Broadway musical The Band’s Visit, which is discussed in this article. This show touches on a simple, realistic encounter of Egyptians and Israelis, rather than showcasing violence of the Middle East. This story, a true one, gives the audience a glimpse at how similar groups that are made out to be “enemies” can actually be. I believe stories like this are so important because they allow us to stop and ponder “What are we really fighting about?” and “Is it really necessary?” Now, I understand the issues of the Middle East are much more complicated than that. But as an artist and a human being, I find it to be relevant question to always ask.
Post a Comment