The Jewish Question
Synopsis
After a massive peace march, two Jewish journalists spend the evening in Grace’s Venice kitchen for Shabbat. Over dinner, vodka, family history, politics, Israel and Palestine, pacifism, aging, and desire turn one evening into an argument about what Jewish identity demands and whom we owe care.
Characters
Rebecca’s paternal aunt, a Kindertransport survivor and lifelong peace activist. Warm, funny, and formidable.
Professional photojournalist, passionate pacifist, smart, goofy, and politically engaged.
Political journalist with strong convictions about Israeli sovereignty, Jewish safety, and U.S. intervention.
Staging & Technical Requirements
Grace’s kitchen in Venice, California, on a Friday in spring 2004. A kitchen table and Shabbat meal are the central practical elements. Projections or a cyclorama may support political montage, sunset, and historical images. Music, sound, candlelight, and the Shabbat ritual are important to the atmosphere.