On Sunday March 6th, twenty Shomrei people went off-Broadway to see a production of Prayer for the French Republic at the Manhattan  Theater Company.  Our congregant, Lindsey Sag, who is the General Manager of the theater suggested I organize a theater party.  I hesitated — it was still Covid after all — were we ready to head into Manhattan?  In fact we were!  Tickets sold out quickly, COVID is waning, and it was almost a Spring day.

The play spoke to all of us — it is a deeply moving exploration of antisemitism in France (and everywhere) — in the modern world and in the past. It is funny, edgy and very moving.  As I left the theater, reflecting on the trauma of war, antisemitism, dislocation and new beginnings, I felt gratitude for the safety of my small community and fear for the larger world.

And when a play can evokes so many emotions, it has performed its magic.

Thank you Lindsey Sag for giving us this moment!

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Shirley Grill

Shirley is a Partner, leadership coach and consultant focusing on individual and leadership team development at Exetor Group. At Shomrei she's been a congregant and leader for many years. A past President and head of the JLC, she's currently co-charing Shomrei's IHN efforts in housing homeless families. She remains involved "ex-officio" in the strategic planning of the Preschool and JLC.

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