Written by Gary Abrahams, Elise Esther Hearst & Galit Klas, based on Isaac Bashevis Singer’s short story
Malthouse Theatre and Kadimah Yiddish Theatre
At Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse until 17 March 2024
Reviewer: Kate Herbert
As I did not see the second half of the production, I cannot review this but I will make a comment.
It is published only on this blog. I’ll mention it on Arts Weekly on 3MBS on Sat 9 March 2024. KH
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| Amy Hack & Evelyn Krape_photo Jeff Busby |
Yentl is an adaptation of Isaac Bashevis Singer’s original Yiddish language short story. Parts of the dialogue are delivered in Yiddish with surtitles, which adds a layer of authenticity and eccentricity.
It tells the story of Yentl (Amy Hack) a young woman who wants to be a Jewish scholar, but is not permitted because of her gender. Religous study is the preserve of males.
Yentl studies in secret with her father but she must change plans when he dies. Dressed in man’s clothing, and with the encouragement of a mischievous, at times, wicked Dybbuk (Evelyn Krape), she goes on a journey to a distant town where she meets a young man who introduces her to a Yeshiva - a traditional Rabbinical school - where she becomes a scholar and a favourite.
The production is visually compelling and boasts a talented and versatile cast.
Krape balances the comic and the grim as the Dybbuk, scuttling about the stage like a demented creature. Amy Hack is passionate and credible as young Yentl as she wrangles her secret life.
Directed by Gary Abrahams, this production draws on the styles and forms of Yiddish Theatre, Polish theatre, cabaret and a range of other styles to weave its narrative. The design is almost monochromatic on stage, with actors in white face and black-and-white costumes with splashes of colour.
There is more to say about the production but, to quote the Dybbuk, there are three weddings, only one of which lasts, and Yentl’s life becomes more and more complicated and messy.
by Kate Herbert
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