Zibby Owens, a prominent entrepreneur and media figure, is poised to transform the acclaimed anthology On Being Jewish Now into a stage performance. This adaptation comes at a critical moment, as the Jewish community grapples with rising antisemitism, particularly following the events of October 7. The stage production is set to debut in Los Angeles on March 22, with plans for a mini-tour across Southern California and the Bay Area, alongside an online presentation via Zoom.
On Being Jewish Now, which spent an impressive 27 weeks at the top of the USA Today bestseller list, features essays from a diverse range of Jewish authors, cultural commentators, and thinkers. The adaptation will weave these essays into a cohesive ensemble performance, highlighting the seldom-explored inner lives of Jews facing the emotional repercussions of a world fraught with conflict and hatred. The cast will don simple black attire, reflecting the serious themes of the production.
Stories from the heart
The performance will showcase personal accounts from various contributors, including acclaimed writer Joanna Rakoff, actor Mark Feuerstein, and spiritual leader Rabbi Sharon Brous. Each narrative provides insight into the unique challenges faced by Jewish individuals in today’s complex climate. The ensemble cast will be directed by Susan Morgenstern, the producing director at The Braid, who is currently casting performers, with notable talents like Abbe Meryl Feder and Benmio McCrea already committed to the project.
A time for reflection
Owens expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming production, highlighting the profound impact of the personal narratives she has read and edited. “The thought of sharing these moving stories with a live audience gives me goosebumps,” she stated. She underscored that the shared experience of being together in a room, engaging with these intimate tales, will foster a genuine sense of community. Owens remarked, “Every Jewish person I know has had to redefine what being Jewish means in light of the rapidly changing landscape around us. This show and the book offer intimate reflections that resonate universally. Let’s question, explore, and unite in hope.”
Creating a unifying force
Ronda Spinak, the founder and artistic director of The Braid, articulated her vision for the production, emphasizing the need to voice the often-unspoken interior lives of American Jews at this critical juncture. By adapting Zibby Owens’ celebrated book for the stage, Spinak aims to ensure that the Jewish community feels acknowledged and understood, seeking to create a unifying force in a world that often appears deeply divided.
Through the combination of powerful storytelling and theatrical expression, On Being Jewish Now aspires to be more than just a performance; it aims to stimulate dialogue about the experiences of Jewish individuals in contemporary society. The adaptation challenges audiences to confront the reality of rising hatred while simultaneously celebrating the resilience and hope within the Jewish community.
As the world navigates complex social issues, the timing of this adaptation is particularly relevant. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of storytelling in fostering understanding and connection among diverse communities. Through this compelling production, Zibby Owens and The Braid are positioned to make a significant impact, encouraging audiences to reflect on the shared human experience.