Contact:     Katharine Kline
                   Communications Manager
                   [email protected]
                   (612)205-1609

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2014

 

MJTC Wins an Ivey Award for Rose

St. Paul, MN -- Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) was awarded an Ivey Award for its late summer production, Rose, by Martin Sherman. Rose ran at MJTC from August 9 - 24, 2014 and took place in private homes. The production starred Sally Wingert and was directed by Hayley Finn.

The Ivey Awards Committee recognized Rose for its “intellect and emotional intensity,” calling Sally Wingert’s performance “captivating.” Rose weaves 80 years of memories into a personal portrait of Jewish identity and history from the perspective of an elderly woman sitting Shiva. Her memories weave their way all the way from a Ukrainian shtetl in the 1920’s to the Nazi invasion of Poland, to Israel and, finally, to modern American life in Miami.

Accepting the award on behalf of MJTC was Producing Artistic Director, Barbara Brooks. In her acceptance speech, Barbara thanked lead actress Sally Wingert, Director Hayley Finn, Stage Manager Kelli Tucker, Costumer Christine A. Richardson, and the gracious hosts who opened their homes for this uniquely intimate theatrical experience.

This is the fourth Ivey Award recognizing MJTC productions. The other Iveys were awarded to Miriam Monasch for her direction of Our Class (2012), Chris Griffith for his puppet design in Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins (2009), and Sally Wingert for her performance in Woman Before A Glass (2007).

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) is a non-profit organization currently celebrating its 20th season. Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company ignites the hearts and minds of people of all cultural backgrounds by producing theater of the highest artistic standards. Rooted in Jewish content, our work explores differences, illuminates commonalities, and fosters greater understanding among all people. For further information about MJTC and its 20th anniversary season, visit mnjewishtheatre.org, email [email protected], or call (651)647-4315.

# # #

Contact:     Katharine Kline
                   Communications Manager
                   [email protected]
                   (612)205-1609

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2014

 MJTC’s 20th Anniversary Season

Announcing the launch of its fall production:

NEW JERUSALEM, THE INTERROGATION OF BARUCH DE SPINOZA AT TALMUD TORAH CONGREGATION: AMSTERDAM, JULY 27, 1656

By David Ives

Directed by Kurt Schweickhardt

“Fierce, funny, and up-to-the-minute in its moral investigations.”

                                     -The Washington Post

St. Paul, MN -- Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) launches its fall season with New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1656. This production runs from October 18 - November 9, 2014 at the Hillcrest Center Theater, 1978 Ford Parkway, St. Paul, MN 55116. Tickets range in price from $19 - $28. Student and group discounts are available. To order, call (651)647-4315 or visit mnjewishtheatre.org.

New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1656 is a timely and riveting exploration of identity, morality, community, and theology. In the 1600‘s, Sephardic Jews of Spain and Portugal fled to Amsterdam to escape the mass conversions, public burnings, and killings of the Catholic Inquisition. In exchange for safe haven, they agreed to police their own community for unorthodox beliefs. So when Spinoza, heir apparent to the chief Rabbi, is accused of atheism, he is summoned to the synagogue to defend himself. The ensuing trial is rich with philosophical and political investigations that echo strongly today.

Creative Team:

David Ives (Playwright) is perhaps best known for his evening of one-act plays, All In The Timing and for his drama Venus In Fur, which was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play. His other plays include The School For Lies (adapted from Molière’s The Misanthrope); The Liar (adapted from Corneille); Time Flies; and Is He Dead? (adapted from Mark Twain.) He has also translated Feydeau’s A Flea In Her Ear and Yasmina Reza’s A Spanish Play. He is a former Guggenheim Fellow in playwriting and a graduate of The Yale School of Drama.

Kurt Schweickhardt (Director) returns to MJTC for his 7th production. Previous productions include A Strange and Separate People, The 75th, The Value of Names, and Old Wicked Songs. Kurt has also performed at MJTC in The Shadow of the Valley.

Alex Brightwell (Simon De Vries) has previously appeared at MJTC in Photograph 51 and The History of Invulnerability. His other credits include Walking Shadow Theater Company and Theatre in the Round. He is a graduate of the U of MN / Guthrie Theater B.F. A. actor training program.

George Muellner (Saul Levi Mortera) has previously appeared at MJTC in Our Class, Chaim’s Love Song, and Parade. His other credits include Park Square Theatre, Nautilus Music Theater, Children’s Theatre Company, Guthrie Theater, History Theatre, The Playwrights’ Center, and MN Fringe Festival.

Skyler Nowinski (Gasper Rodrigues Ben Israel) has previously appeared at MJTC in The Magic Dreidels, Hanukkah Lights in the Big Sky, and The Last Word. His other credits include Mixed Blood Theatre, Walking Shadow, Workhaus Collective, and the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. He is a graduate of the U of MN / Guthrie Theater B.F. A. actor training program.

Briana Patnode (Clara Van Den Eden) makes her MJTC debut. Her credits include Theatre Coup d’Etat, Public Theater of Minnesota, and CLIMB Theater Company.

James Ramlet (Abraham Van Valkenburgh) makes his MJTC debut. His credits include the Guthrie Theater, Frank Theatre, History Theatre, and Children’s Theatre Company.

Michael Hugh Torsch (Baruch De Spinoza) makes his MJTC debut. His credits include Normandale Theater, Agile Rabbit Theatre Company, and Theatre Corrobora.

Rachel Weber (Rebecca De Spinoza) makes her MJTC debut. Credits include Children’s Theatre Company, Bloomington Civic Theatre, Park Square Theatre, and Theatre in the Round.

The creative team also includes Theresa Akers (Scenic Design), Annie Cady (Costume Design), Paul Epton (Lighting Design), C. Andrew Mayer (Sound Design), and Kelli Tucker (Stage Manager).

Related Programs:

MJTC’s Doorways Programs provide deeper insights into the subjects and issues addressed in its productions. For New Jerusalem, these include:

Symposium on Baruch de SpinozaJoin us after the matinee performance on Sunday, October 19th for a presentation by Geoffrey Gorham, Philosophy Department Chair, Macalester College. 

Continuing Legal Education Program Judges and lawyers will discuss the themes that run throughout the play and apply to the legal system today. Following the matinee performance on Sunday, October 26.       (1 CLE credit applied for.) Sponsored by Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. 

Meet the Director & Cast Join us after the performance on Thursday, October 23rd  for a discussion with the director and cast of the show. Gain further insights into the play and how the director and actors approach their work.

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) is a non-profit organization currently celebrating its 20th season. Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company ignites the hearts and minds of people of all cultural backgrounds by producing theater of the highest artistic standards. Rooted in Jewish content, our work explores differences, illuminates commonalities, and fosters greater understanding among all people. For further information about MJTC and its 20th anniversary season, visit mnjewishtheatre.org, email [email protected], or call (651)647-4315.

Individual Producers Linda and Mike Platt

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.     

# # #

Contact:         Katharine Kline, Communications Manager
                       [email protected]
                       (612) 205-1609

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 15, 2014

MJTC Welcomes New Communications Manager

St. Paul, MN --- Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) welcomes Katharine Kline to the MJTC family as its newly appointed Communications Manager.

Katharine brings a wealth of arts experience to MJTC. Formerly, she was the Director of The Morris Cafritz Center for the Arts in Washington, DC. In this position, she oversaw Theater J, The Ann Loeb Bronfman Gallery, The Screening Room Film Series, and The Washington Jewish Film Festival.  Additionally, Katharine directed the Department of Literary and Music Programs at the Morris Cafritz Center for the Arts where she oversaw an annual literary festival, founded and directed The Washington Jewish Music Festival, and curated a year-round author and concert series. She attracted nationally renowned talent to the arts center, including Tony Kushner, Robert Pinsky, Amos Oz, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Thomas Friedman, and guests for NPR's Selected Shorts program. Katharine holds a BA in Religion and an MA in Jewish Studies from the University of Chicago.

“I’m very excited to welcome Katie” says Barbara Brooks, MJTC’s producing artistic director.  “The part-time communications manager position was established two years ago as part of MJTC's long-range strategic plan to increase organizational capacity by enlarging staff.  Katie brings not only an extensive background in arts administration, but an enthusiasm for and commitment to the work of MJTC.  She’s a perfect fit for the position and our plans for growing staff-time.”

MJTC is a non-profit organization currently celebrating its 20th season. MJTC ignites the hearts and minds of people of all cultural backgrounds by producing theater of the highest artistic standards. Rooted in Jewish content, its work explores differences, illuminates commonalities, and fosters greater understanding of all people. For more information about MJTC and its 20th anniversary season, visit mnjewishtheatre.org, email [email protected], or call (651)647-4315.

###

2014-15 Season to Include A New Commission/World Premiere, A New Musical, and Performances in Twin Cities Homes

ST. PAUL, MN (July 17 2014) ‐‐ Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is pleased to announce an exciting line up of five shows for its 2014-15 season.  Artists familiar to MJTC theatergoers will be on stage and on the creative teams through the 20th anniversary season. 

The season will open with Rose by Martin Sherman.  Sally Wingert, previously seen at MJTC in Family Secrets, Woman Before a Glass, and 2.5 Minute Ride, stars in this riveting solo show, previously produced by MJTC in 2002 and 2003.  “I’m very excited to open our 20th season with Rose. This glorious script provides an illuminating historical overview of 20th century Jewish events, and I’m thrilled to welcome back Sally to bring this work to life” says Barbara Brooks, MJTC’s producing artistic director.  Throughout the play, Rose sits Shiva, a Jewish tradition of mourning in which following a death, the mourner sits on a wooden bench at home.   Performances of Rose will take place in different homes throughout the Twin Cities. Rose will be directed by Hayley Finn, who previously directed The Gospel According to Jerry, The Last Word, Compulsion or the House Behind, Handle with Care, and The History of Invulnerability at MJTC.  Rose will run August 9 through August 24, 2014.

Up next will be New Jerusalem, the Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1656 by David Ives.  This riveting drama, rich with philosophical and political ideologies that echo today, is an exploration of nature, liberty, and the meaning of G-d.  When Sephardic Jews of Spain and Portugal came to Amsterdam to escape the mass conversions, public burnings, and killing of the Catholic inquisition, they agreed to police their own community for unorthodox beliefs.  When Baruch de Spinoza, heir apparent to the chief Rabbi, is accused of atheism, he’s summoned to the synagogue to defend himself.  New Jerusalem will be directed by Kurt Schweickhardt. Previously at MJTC, Kurt directed The 75th for MJTC’s inaugural season, and then subsequently directed The Value of Names, Old Wicked Songs, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, and most recently, A Strange and Separate People.  Kurt appeared on the MJTC stage in the world premiere production of Shadow of the Valley.  New Jerusalem will play October 18 through November 9, 2014.

The Chanukkah Guest, a new MJTC commission, will receive its world premiere in the holiday season.  Adapted for the stage by Twin Cities playwright Jenna Zark, and based on the book of the same name by Eric A. Kimmel, this funny, heartwarming, and imaginative tale explores the cultural traditions of Chanukkah.  Although Bubba Braina is quite old and cannot see nor hear well, she makes the best potato latkes in the village.  As she prepares for the first night of Chanukkah and her guests, a knock at the door brings a most unexpected visitor.  MJTC previously commissioned Jenna to adapt The Magic Dreidels, also based on a book by Eric A. Kimmel. The Magic Dreidels has been embraced by audiences, subsequently playing many times at MJTC as well as in other American cities.  The Chanukkah Guest will run December 4 through 21, 2014.

MJTC will return after the new year with Stars of David, adapted from the book written by former 60 Minutes producer Abigal Pogrebin, and conceived by Aaron Harnick.  This new musical revue shines with engaging personal portraits of over 30 accomplished Americans as they reflect on their Jewish heritage and the role it has played in their lives.  With original songs by some of theater’s most noted composers and lyricists including Duncan Sheik, Marvin Hamlisch, Jeanine Tesori and Sheldon Harnick, we hear the stories of admired people such as Leonard Nimoy, Sarah Jessica Parker, Al Franken, Kenneth Cole, Tony Kushner, Steven Spielberg, and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.  “I will thrilled to be introduced to this new show by the office of Daryl Roth.  As it was being developed, they kept me informed and then invited me to see the early run in NYC.  I’m so pleased that MJTC is one of the first theaters to bring this work to the stage.”  Stars of David will be directed by Michael Kissin.  Previously at MJTC, Mike directed the sold-out hit My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding and its return engagement, as well as Goats and Talley’s Folley.  Mike appeared on stage in the one-man show, Boychick.  Stars of David will run February 14-March 8, 2015.

MJTC will conclude the season with Jericho by Jack Canfora.  This absorbing new play looks at four 30-something New Yorkers navigating the emotional aftermath of tragedy.  Beth lost her husband in the World Trade Center on 9/11, and now, four years later, is dating Ethan. Thanksgiving brings the two together with Ethan’s brother, Josh, and his wife, Jessica.  Josh, who survived the attack on the towers, is trying to make sense of his life, now with differently held perspectives and values. This insightful play about living and letting go is a testament to survival and recovery.  Jericho will be directed by Warren C. Bowles.  Previously at MJTC, Warran directed Photograph 51.  Jericho will play April 18 through May 10, 2015.

Tickets

Season passbooks are now available by calling 651‐647‐4315. Subscription prices: $55‐$75; full time student passbook is $36. 

Individual tickets for Rose are also now on sale; price: $45/$55 for opening night.  

Box office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is a non‐profit organization now in its 20th year of presenting professional productions rooted in the Jewish experience and illuminating the common humanity among us all. The audience for MJTC is almost equally divided between Jews and non‐Jews. For further information about MJTC, call 651‐647‐4315 or visit our website at mnjewishtheatre.org; or join our facebook family at http://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaJewishTheatreCompany or follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/MNJewishTheatre.

 

Who:                     Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company

 What:                   The History of Invulnerability by David Bar Katz

 When:                  Opening April 19, 2014 

MINNESOTA JEWISH THEATRE COMPANY CLOSES SEASON WITH REGIONAL PREMIERE ABOUT CREATION OF SUPERMAN

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is pleased to present The History of Invulnerability, running April 19 through May 11, 2014.

This intriguing new work about the true story of the creation of Superman and the tumultuous events surrounding the growth of this superhero to iconic status amidst the depression and W.W. II will be directed by Hayley Finn with a cast including Ivey Award-winner Jim Lichtscheidl portraying Jerry Siegel, Dan Beckmann portraying Superman, and Alex Brightwell portraying Joe Shuster.  Joanna Harmon, Charles Numrich, Dustin Valenta, and Maggie Bearmon Pistner round out the cast.

Original, illustrated images totaling nearly 100 have been created by artist Sam Smith for projection.  They play an integral role in telling the story.  The design team also includes Eric Hugunin (scenic design), Michael Wangen (lighting design), Barbara Portinga (costume design), and C Andrew Mayer (sound design).

Barbara Brooks, producing artistic director at MJTC shares, “Waiting two years for the rights to produce this exciting work was well worth it!  I’m thrilled that Jim Lichtscheidl comes to MJTC for the first time for this play, and Sam Smith’s work is quite impressive. “    

The History of Invulnerability will be playing April 19 through May 11; Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 1 p.m.  There will be one Sunday evening performance on April 20 at 7 p.m.  There will be an audio described performance on Sunday, April 27 at 1 p.m.    Ticket prices are $19 - $28; special student rush $12.

Further information and media inquiries can be directed to Barbara Brooks at 651-647-4315 or [email protected]

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is a non-profit organization now in its 19th year of presenting professional productions rooted in the Jewish experience and illuminating the common humanity among us all.  The audience for MJTC is almost equally divided between Jews and non-Jews.  For further information about MJTC, call 651-647-4315 or visit our website at mnjewishtheatre.org; or join our facebook family at http://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaJewishTheatreCompany or follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/MNJewishTheatre.

This project was made possible in part with the support of RIMON: The Minnesota Jewish Arts Council, an initiative of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

###

For Release 3/14/14

 “Bar Katz has X-ray vision to see into the human soul, and his
powerful play should be required viewing.”
                                                              – City Beat of Cincinnati

St. Paul, MN – Minnesota Jewish Theater Company is pleased to announce the cast for the regional premiere of The History of Invulnerability by David Bar Katz and directed by Hayley Finn. The show tells the story of the creation of Superman by Jerry Siegel with illustrator Joe Shuster, and the rise of this superhero to iconic status during the 1930s and 40s.  Based on true events, this intriguing new play tells the tumultuous story, intertwining the events of a world in strife, a place where even Superman has his limits.

The cast features Jim Lichtscheidl as Jerry Siegel, Dan Beckmann as Superman, Alex Brightwell as Joe Shuster, and Joanna Harmon as Lois Lane as well as the talents of Maggie Bearmon Pistner, Charles Numrich, and Dustin Valenta. The show will include projections of original artwork by artist Sam Smith, incorporated into the scenic design of Eric Hugunin with lighting design by Michael Wangen, and sound design by C Andrew Mayer.

“The History of Invulnerability is one of the most unique and profound plays I’ve ever come across, and I don’t even read comics nor have I ever followed Superman” says Barbara Brooks, Producing Artistic Director of MJTC.  “I waited over two years for the rights, and we’ve got a cast and production team that will bring this story about an enduring cultural icon to life beautifully.”

The History of Invulnerability

April 19 – May 11

Hillcrest Center Theater
1978 Ford Parkway, St. Paul, MN 55116

Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays at 8 p.m.
Sundays at 1 p.m.

There will be one Sunday evening performance on April 20th at 7 p.m.

Audio Description will be on Sunday, April 27 at 1 p.m.

For tickets and more information call 651-647-4315 or go to mnjewishtheatre.org.

Media inquiries can be directed to Barbara Brooks at [email protected] or 651-647-4315.

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is a non-profit organization now in its 19th year of presenting professional productions rooted in the Jewish experience and illuminating the common humanity among us all.  The audience for MJTC is almost equally divided between Jews and non-Jews.  For further information about MJTC, call 651-647-4315 or visit our website at mnjewishtheatre.org; or join our facebook family at http://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaJewishTheatreCompany or follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/MNJewishTheatre.

This project was made possible in part with the support of RIMON: The Minnesota Jewish Arts Council, an initiative of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.

 

 

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

 

St. Paul, MN, November 13, 2013:  Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company’s hit holiday production, The Magic Dreidels, is back this holiday season.  Originally commissioned by MJTC in 2000, and subsequently produced in other cities in the United States, The Magic Dreidels was adapted by Twin Cities playwright Jenna Zark from the endearing book of the same name by noted children’s book author Eric A. Kimmel.

The Magic Dreidels is the story of Jakob, a young boy who is sent to the well by his father to get water for preparation of the holiday meal.  There he loses his new dreidel, a small spinning top, down the well.  A goblin living in the well replaces his dreidel with magical ones, beginning a series of adventures for Jakob with a lonely neighbor, Fruma Sarah.  This engaging holiday tale is an opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions of Hanukkah, and the universal themes of sharing, caring, compassion, and friendship.

The Magic Dreidels features three actors known well to MJTC audiences: Bob Malos (Photograph 51) will appear as Yankel, Bethany Ford (Photograph 51, Compulsion or the House Behind, and Women’s Minyan) will be seen as Fruma Sarah, and Skyler Nowinski (The Last Word, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins) takes on the role of the goblin.  James Pratt will make his first appearance with MJTC in the role of Jakob.

MJTC is pleased to present Doorways program in conjunction with The Magic Dreidels. Doorways is MJTC’s initiative of ongoing programs such as symposia, community forums, post-show discussions, written communications, and work with schoolchildren, all designed to open the door to greater understanding and enjoyment of the plays we present and to deeper insight into the subjects and issues they address.

Doorways programs in conjunction with The Magic Dreidels are as follows:

-          Thursday, December 5: Pre-show reading of the book and discussion with director, Barbara Brooks, and potato latke tasting (space is limited)

-          Saturday, December 7: Post-performance meet and greet

The Magic Dreidels opens December 5, 2013 and plays through December 20, 2013; opening night performance on Thursday, December 5 at 7 pm, and continuing on week-day mornings through December 20th.  There are two week-end performances:  Saturday, December 7 at 7 pm and Sunday December 8 at 1 pm.  Ticket price is $17.  Group discounts are available for school groups.  For ticket reservations call 651-647-4315 Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is a non-profit organization now in its 19th year of presenting professional productions rooted in the Jewish experience and illuminating the common humanity among us all.  The audience for MJTC is almost equally divided between Jews and non-Jews.  For further information about MJTC, call 651-647-4315 or visit our website at mnjewishtheatre.org; or join our facebook family at http://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaJewishTheatreCompany or follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/MNJewishTheatre

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

 

The Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is pleased to open the regional premiere of Jon Marans' A Strange and Separate People on October 12, 2013.

This contemporary drama of betrayal and new beginnings focuses on Jay and Phyllis-a young, Upper West Side, Orthodox Jewish couple whose marriage unravels when Jay becomes romantically involved with Stuart-a young doctor who is handsome, cocky, and strangely charismatic. Stuart is also Orthodox but has recently been awakened to his religion. A Strange and Separate People explores the struggle for many to accept their homosexuality while observing their religious beliefs, and questions the meaning of love.

A Strange and Separate People will run October 12 through November 3, 2013 and will be directed by Kurt Schweickhardt.  This is Mr. Schweickhardt's sixth production with MJTC; his previous productions include Old Wicked Songs, also by Jon Marans.

Barbara Brooks, producing artistic director at MJTC shares, "The overarching theme of Jon's plays tend to address self discovery and struggling with one's personal beliefs. A Strange and Separate People is a compelling play that will encourage community discussion and, hopefully, understanding and acceptance. Jon's play Old Wicked Songs, which we produced in 1997, is one of my most favorite plays.  I couldn't be more pleased with an opportunity to again introduce a new work of Jon's to Minnesota audiences."

MJTC would also like to welcome back to the stage Elena Giannetti. Ms. Giannetti previously appeared in Our Class, My Name is Asher Lev, and Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, and will play the role of Phyllis in A Strange and Separate People. Other acting credits include the Guthrie, Park Square, History Theatre, Penumbra, Mixed Blood, TRP, Children's Theatre, Playwrights' Center, Off Leash Area, MN Shakespeare Project.

  Brand new to the MJTC stage are Brandon Bruce (Jay) and Nate Cheeseman (Stuart). Mr. Bruce is a recent transplant to the Twin Cities and has performed with such theaters as the Cleveland Play House, Porthouse, Signal Ensemble, and Iowa Summer Repertory.  Mr. Cheeseman recently graduated from the University of Minnesota/Guthrie BFA Actor Training Program.  MJTC is delighted to have a dynamic cast to bring this play to life at MJTC.

A Strange and Separate People will run October 12 through November 3, 2013.

 

The Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company will close its 18th season with the laugh-out-loud comedy Handle With Care by Jason Odell Williams.

Receiving its regional premiere, Handle With Care is the story of Ayelet, a young Israeli woman who is dragged by her grandmother on a road trip through America in search of a dream.  A strange itinerary through small Virginia towns, a botched DHL delivery, a surprise blizzard, and a strong language barrier all eventually lead Ayelet to find what she didn’t know she was looking for: her destiny. 

MJTC would like to welcome two new actresses to the MJTC stage for Handle With Care. Linda Kelsey will be playing the role of Edna, Ayelet’s grandmother. Ms. Kelsey is best known for the role of Billie Newman in Lou Grant.  Other TV roles include: ER, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, M*A*S*H, The Twilight Zone, Streets of San Francisco, and Eleanor and Franklin. Local theater credits include Park Square Theatre (Mary Queen of Scotts, Eleemosynary, Biography, Dancing at Lughnasa, The Belle of Amherst, Doubt), Guthrie Theater (When We Are Married).  Miriam

Schwartz will play the role of Ayelet. Ms. Schwartz is a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theater BFA Actor Training Program.  Past credits include Sonya in Uncle Vanya, Jenny in In Game or Real, Arden in Cinephilia, and multiple roles in Clandestino. 

Dustin Bronson and Ryan Lindberg return to the MJTC stage to round out this dynamic cast.  Mr. Bronson last appeared in Photograph 51 with MJTC.  Other theatre credits include Park Square Theater (Of Mice and Men) and Illusion Theater (My Antonia, Autistic License).  Ryan Lindberg previously appeared with MJTC in Goats, Moonlight and Magnolias, The Gospel According to Jerry, Modern Orthodox, and Twilight of the Golds.  Other theater credits include Guthrie Theater (Six Degrees of Separation), Milwaukee Shakespeare (The Taming of the Shrew), Walking Shadow (Robots vs. Fake Robots, Squawk), and Gremlin Theatre (Corleone). Hayley Finn will direct Handle With Care.  Previously at MJTC she directed Compulsion or the House Behind, The Last Word…, and The Gospel According to Jerry.  Ms. Finn is the Resident Director and Lab Producer at the Playwrights’ Center. Other directing credits in the Twin Cities include Hiding In The Open (History Theatre), ADY (Pangea World Theater), and Permanence Collection (Walker Art Center).  She holds both a B.A. and M.A. from Brown University.

Handle With Care will run April 13 through May 5, 2013. 

Further information, media inquiries, and photo requests can be directed to Cadence Cornelius at[email protected].