The Sarasota Jewish Theater Announces Coming Season

The Sarasota Jewish Theater, a project of the Jewish Federation of Sarasota/Manatee, is planning a riveting follow-up for its successful inaugural season, with three entertaining, emotionally engaging, contemporary plays.

Carolyn Michel in Rose.

Rose: Martin Sherman’s riveting play blends the personal with the political as it traces Rose’s story from war ravaged Europe, to the Exodus and Israel, and eventually living the American dream in Miami Beach. A one-woman tour-de-force starring Carolyn Michel and directed by Howard Millman, Rose’s journey connects 20th century events to images that play out on our tv’s today. Preview, February 2, performances February 3, 5, at 7:30 pm. February 6 at 1:30 and 5:30. 

The Interview by Faye Sholiton: A Florida Gulf-Coast premiere! Geraldine Librandi recreates her acclaimed performance as Bracha Weissman, a Holocaust survivor who reluctantly agrees to be interviewed for the Shoah Project. In a surprising twist, a simple oral history leads to a complicated journey of healing for both Bracha and the interviewer. Directed by Carole Kleinberg, The Interview also features award-winning actor Katherine Michelle Tanner. Preview, March 2, performances March 3, 5, at 7:30 pm. March 6 at 1:30 and 5:30.

Tuesdays with Morrie: In this autobiographical story of journalist Mitch Albom and his former Brandeis University Professor Morrie Schwartz, a casual visit turns into a last class in the meaning of life. A touching, life-affirming drama sprinkled with a generous dose of humor, it features performances by Sarasota favorites Don Walker and Derek Brookens. Preview, April 6, Performances, April 7, 9, at 7:30 pm. March 10 at 1:30 and 5:30.

Artistic director Kleinberg said in an interview with Sarasota Magazine, “In a community that supports a thriving black theater, it seems to me that there is a place for a strong, professional Jewish theater. We theater people are storytellers, and especially in this political climate, I think it is important to tell Jewish stories, to celebrate Jewish authors, and to offer programs and plays which open a dialogue in the most positive way possible.”

SJT will perform live at the Players Centre – Studio 1130 in the Crossings of Siesta Key Mall on Tamiami Trail and Siesta Drive. Ticket prices range from $18 to $36. For tickets call the Players box office at 941-365-2494 or order online at jfedsrq.org/SJT. For information: info@sarasotajewishtheater.org. SJT is a project of the Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee. We follow the CDC Covid-19 protocols.