The American theatre landscape is about to get a little more informed, and hopefully, a lot more sensitive. The Alliance for Jewish Theatre (AJT), a leading voice for Jewish theatrical works globally, has launched “Jewish Theatrical Resources: A Guide for Theaters Producing Jewish Work,” a freely available resource designed to help theaters navigate the complexities of authentically and respectfully presenting stories rooted in Jewish culture and experience. The guide, born from a recognized need within the industry, aims to bridge gaps in understanding and prevent unintentional missteps when Jewish narratives are brought to non-Jewish stages.
For years, conversations within the Jewish artistic community have centered on the challenges faced when stories are told *about* Jewish people, rather than *by* them. Whereas Jewish stories are increasingly present in mainstream theatre, productions often stumble on nuances of religious practice, cultural context, and historical accuracy. The AJT’s guide isn’t about censorship or restriction; it’s about empowerment – empowering theaters to produce these works with a deeper level of collaboration and understanding, and enriching the theatrical experience for everyone involved. The guide is available for download on the AJT website here.
The project, spearheaded by playwright and AJT board member Ali Viterbi, involved contributions from over 50 Jewish artists, casting directors, dramaturgs, and development professionals. “This guide has been in the works for a long time and is something our members were hungry for,” said Jesse Bernstein, president of the AJT. “Even though Jewish stories are not uncommon on stages around the world, when non-Jewish theatres produce this work, there can be errors or uncertainty.”
A Comprehensive Toolkit for Inclusive Production
The “Jewish Theatrical Resources” guide isn’t a prescriptive checklist, but rather a comprehensive toolkit broken down into eight key areas. Casting receives significant attention, offering best practices that honor identity and nuance, moving beyond tokenism and encouraging thoughtful consideration of representation. Marketing strategies are examined, with guidance on avoiding harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusive messaging. The guide also delves into the often-overlooked area of development, providing fundraising strategies tailored to engaging both Jewish and non-Jewish funders.
Beyond the artistic and logistical aspects, the guide emphasizes the importance of community engagement. It offers practical advice on building trust with Jewish communities, recognizing that authentic representation requires genuine dialogue and collaboration. Rehearsal processes are also addressed, outlining practices that create a supportive and respectful environment for Jewish artists. A crucial component is a calendar of major Jewish holidays and observances, helping productions avoid scheduling conflicts and demonstrate cultural sensitivity. This isn’t simply about avoiding offense; it’s about creating a space where Jewish artists and audiences feel seen and valued.
Addressing a Growing Need for Cultural Awareness
The launch of this guide comes at a time of heightened awareness surrounding issues of representation and cultural appropriation in the arts. The conversation extends beyond the theatre world, reflecting a broader societal reckoning with historical inequities and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. The AJT recognizes that producing Jewish theatre responsibly requires a commitment to ongoing learning and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations.
“Whether you’re a producer, director, stage manager, marketer, or donor engagement lead, this resource is designed to support you,” Viterbi stated. The guide’s accessibility – it’s free to download and designed to be an evolving resource – underscores the AJT’s commitment to making Jewish theatre more accessible and exciting for all. Bernstein added that the AJT envisions the guide as a “free, evolving resource designed to support your work and grow with your feedback,” encouraging widespread adoption and contribution.
Conference to Foster Dialogue and Collaboration
The guide will be a central focus of the AJT’s upcoming annual conference, marking a revival of the in-person event after a period of virtual gatherings. The conference will be held October 18-19 at the Breman Museum and Cultural Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The choice of venue – a museum dedicated to Jewish history and culture – signals the AJT’s commitment to grounding the conference in a space of learning and understanding.
Lynde Rosario, executive director of the AJT, emphasized the importance of this dialogue. “Notice essential conversations needed to address the global theatre landscape for Jews today,” she said, “and we are asking Jewish theatre artists of all backgrounds, experience levels, and disciplines to be part of the ongoing discourse.” The conference promises to be a vital forum for fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Jewish theatre today. The AJT hopes to create a space where both Jewish and non-Jewish theatre professionals can learn from one another and work together to create more authentic and meaningful productions.
The release of “Jewish Theatrical Resources” isn’t just a guide; it’s an invitation. An invitation to theaters, artists, and audiences alike to engage with Jewish stories with greater sensitivity, respect, and understanding. It’s a step towards a more inclusive and vibrant theatre landscape, where diverse voices are not only heard but truly celebrated. The AJT will continue to solicit feedback on the guide, ensuring it remains a relevant and valuable resource for the theatre community.
The next step for the Alliance for Jewish Theatre is the annual conference in Atlanta, where these conversations will continue and deepen. Attendees can find more information and register for the conference on the AJT website. Share your thoughts on the guide and the future of Jewish theatre in the comments below.
