'Sarah: Text and Presence' offers a 21st-century reimagining of traditional Jewish texts

The article previews 'Sarah: Text and Presence,' a new experimental theater piece by Theatre Company Jerusalem and Theater and Theology. Created by directors Gabriella Lev and Yael Valier, the production blends live music, biblical and midrashic texts, monologues, and haiku into a 'performative beit midrash.' It builds on the earlier Hebrew play 'Sara Take 2' and explores themes of presence, tradition, and post-Oct. 7 meaning-making.

The Jerusalem Post previews 'Sarah: Text and Presence,' a new experimental theater piece from Theatre Company Jerusalem and Theater and Theology. Created and performed by directors Gabriella Lev and Yael Valier, the production is billed as a 'performative beit midrash' — an interactive event that blends live music, biblical and midrashic texts, monologues by the late Aliza Elion Israeli, haiku by Sara Tropper, and special light design by John Krug. It builds on TCJ's earlier Hebrew play 'Sara Take 2' but is described as a fundamentally new work. The directors frame the piece as a response to the pandemic and Oct. 7, exploring theater's role in fostering presence and human connection. Lev notes the challenge of surrendering control to 'the living energy in the room.' Valier emphasizes the three-dimensional chevruta study model, bringing text into dialogue with actors and audience. The article is a preview and interview, not a review — it quotes the creators extensively on their artistic intentions.