A performing arts festival unique to Western Europe takes place at Leeds Grammar School between 17th and 21st July. The Leeds Jewish International Theatre Festival, first held in 2001, has been described as the "new cultural fringe festival" of Leeds, celebrating Jewish life, theatre, music and arts. Beginning on Sunday evening, the Festival will offer an eclectic range of acts over the five days, offering something for everyone and comprising performers from Britain, America, Israel and Russia.
Don't miss the insights of the controversial political satirist and stand-up comedian, Ivor Dembina, presenting his unique take on the Middle East. For classical music lovers Benjamin Frith, protégée of Dame Fanny Waterman will perform, accompanied by world-class Israeli Cellist, Sagi Har-Tov. This year's Festival also offers other music styles, including the jazz rhythms of Stewart Curtis' K-Groove), klezmer folk from Tapuach BeDevash ("Apple in Honey"), and the diverse world music styles of Daphne Sadeh and the Voyagers.
These are only a few of the amazing international line-up for the Festival, which also includes acts from the grass roots of the Leeds Jewish community. Limelight Drama Group perform 'A Visit To Kasrilevka', inspired by Sholem Aleichem's stories of the 'haym'. Away from the main Festival venue, the newly-opened Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Community Centre is the venue for creative writing and poetry readings by the Community Players.
The Leeds Grammar School site will be transformed into a buzzing Theatre Village with three theatres being used simultaneously, in addition to other performance-related attractions and jewellery and bookstalls in the foyet, as well as the Festival café. There will also be the opportunity to learn more about Jewish theatre and the work of the Festival organizers. This is a unique opportunity to come and enjoy Jewish-related performing arts and music.
For further information and to purchase tickets, see the Leeds Jewish International Theatre Festival website at or e-mail .
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