Yentl, a theatrical gem that has garnered both critical acclaim and prestigious awards, is set to dazzle Sydney audiences in a strictly limited season from 17 October 2024 at the iconic Sydney Opera House’s Playhouse.
The collaboration between Kadimah Yiddish Theatre, Monstrous Theatre, and Neil Gooding Productions, in association with Shalom, brings this unique production to life, celebrating the rich tapestry of Yiddish culture and revisiting its feminist and queer undertones.
For those who aren’t familiar with Yentl, it’s the intriguing tale of a young woman who, not content with the restrictive norms of her time, decides to take matters into her own hands. Yentl defies Jewish orthodox tradition by donning male attire to pursue religious studies, a right reserved for men. The story, originally penned by Nobel Prize laureate Isaac Bashevis Singer, masterfully intertwines elements of religion, gender, sexual politics, and traditional Yiddish culture as Yentl embarks on a journey of self-discovery through faith and love.
This groundbreaking stage adaptation, the first since the 1975 Broadway play and Barbra Streisand’s iconic 1983 film, is directed by Gary Abrahams, with a script co-authored by Abrahams, Elise Hearst, and Galit Klas. The production stars a stellar cast including Amy Hack, Nicholas Jaquinot, Evelyn Krape, and Genevieve Kingsford, each bringing their own flair to this modern masterpiece.
Yentl has already made waves, winning four Green Room Awards, a testament to its outstanding writing and performance. Its 2022 premiere and 2024 season at the Malthouse were met with widespread critical acclaim, setting the stage for a much-anticipated run in Sydney.
Producer Anton Berezin expressed his excitement, stating, “Yentl has long been a powerful and beloved fable of ambition, loss, belonging, and identity. Kadimah’s astounding new production brings this classic tale into the 21st century. We can’t wait to share this beautiful and genuinely unique piece of theatre with Sydney audiences.”
Tickets for Yentl will be available starting 13 August and can be purchased via yentl.com.au. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Yiddish theatre or a newcomer looking to explore its vibrant narratives, this production promises an unforgettable experience at one of the world’s most iconic venues. Don’t miss your chance to witness a cultural revival that resonates with both historical significance and contemporary relevance.