CLIMBING OUT OF THE MELTING POT: JEWS AND JUDAISM IN AMERICAN THEATER

Panel sponsored by the American Jewish Committee, Arena Stage, and Olney Theatre Center.

Jewish writers have made an outsize impact on the American theater, from Irving Berlin to Clifford Odets, from Arthur Miller to Kander & Ebb, from Wendy Wasserstein to Tony Kushner and Paula Vogel.  And how these writers integrated Judaism into their work has changed radically over the past century, from a melting pot philosophy that coded assimilation to an intercultural approach that both celebrates and critiques Jewishness.  DC-area Jewish artists discuss the changing landscape.  Featuring Playwright Renee Calarco, Director/Playwright Derek Goldman, Director/Playwright Jason Loewith, and Director Joy Zinoman.