Story perspectives

Yentl Adaptation Explores Identity Amid Rising Antisemitism

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

The stage adaptation of Isaac Bashevis Singer's 'Yentl the Yeshiva Boy' is at the Marylebone Theatre in London.
Elise Esther Hearst (co-writer) says the production explores darker themes of identity and spirituality.
Hearst notes Jewish creativity is important amid rising antisemitism, after the Hanukkah attack in Sydney.
The bilingual play uses English and Yiddish dialogue because attendance has been affected by the climate around Jewish identity and the Israel-Palestine conflict.

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Story summary

The stage adaptation of Isaac Bashevis Singer's 'Yentl the Yeshiva Boy' is at the Marylebone Theatre in London.
Elise Esther Hearst (co-writer) says the production explores darker themes of identity and spirituality.
Hearst notes Jewish creativity is important amid rising antisemitism, after the Hanukkah attack in Sydney.
The bilingual play uses English and Yiddish dialogue because attendance has been affected by the climate around Jewish identity and the Israel-Palestine conflict.