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An Israeli Love Story - New End Theatre

An Israeli Love Story

Preview by Lizzie Guilfoyle

WRITTEN and directed by Pnina Gary, An Israeli Love Story receives its UK premiere at Hampstead’s New End Theatre, where it runs from May 20 (previews from May 18) to June 6, 2010.

A true story dedicated to the memory of the playwright’s fiancé Eli Ben–Zvi, An Israeli Love Story begins in the summer of 1942 with a chance meeting at a bus stop between the young and vibrant Margalit and Eli, an idealistic kibbutz pioneer and soldier in the Palmach (the unofficial army pre–state of Israel).

Despite the many hardships and dangers of the times, their relationship develops.

This innocently told love story is interwoven with the values and problems of an era gone by, vividly capturing the characters and atmosphere of pre–state Israel.

An Israeli Love Story is performed by Adi Bielski, who was born in Jerusalem. In 2007, she graduated from drama school and in 2008, won the Best Israeli Fringe Actress Award. Her recent theatre credits include Alma & Ruth (Bet Lessin Theatre), We Used to Laugh – Comedy Festival (Habima National Theatre) and Runs in the Family (Tzavta Theatre).

Pnina Gary, actress, writer and recipient of the 2006 Life Achievement Award, was born into a farming community in Israel (Palestine) and studied acting in New York. She is a member of Habima, Israel’s National Theatre, and founder of their experimental stage HABIMARTEF.

Until 1990, Gary was the Artistic Director of Orna Porat Theatre for children and youth. She also adapted Amos Oz novels for stage. Now in her 80s, she will attend every performance at the New End Theatre and run post-show discussions.

An Israeli Love Story is consistently performed in rep at the Givatayim theatre, Tel Aviv and throughout Israel.

Tickets: £16, £14 concessions – available on 0870 033 2733 or at www.newendtheatre.co.uk

Times: Tuesday to Saturday at 8.30pm, Saturday and Sunday at 5pm.