Leadership: David Bunis and Saul Elkin, Founders
Mission Statement
The Jewish Repertory Theatre, a professional theatre whose objective is to share our vibrant Jewish culture with the broader WNY community by presenting plays that deal with Jewish and multi-cultural themes and issues. We are motivated by a belief that dramatic art offers a unique opportunity for diverse audiences to learn more about Jewish values and customs.
About Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western New York
Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western New York was founded in 2003 by David Bunis and Saul Elkin and is a program of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo. JRT provides an avenue for theatrical productions and education relevant to Jewish life. The themes range through historic and modern times. The intent is to showcase Jewish culture as an intrinsic part of the American mosaic. Artistic excellence has quickly propelled JRT into the upper ranks of this area's regional theaters.
In 2009, JRT was honored with an Artie Award for Outstanding Actress in a Play for Awake & Sing! (Ellen Horst) and an Artie Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical, Hello Muddah! Hello Fadduh!: The Allan Sherman Musical (Tim Newell). JRT has been honored with awards for outstanding production two consecutive years, 2008: Spree Magazine's Best of Western New York for Kindertransport; and 2007: Artie Award for The Sisters Rosensweig. JRT's production of Golda's Balcony (June 2008) was transported to Rochester where it was the premiere production at CenterStage (JCC Rochester) that season.
Since its formation, JRT has collaborated with other leading theaters to bring to Buffalo shows that have become critical and audience favorites (2003: Visiting Mr. Green [with Buffalo United Artists]; 2005: Good [with Irish Classical Theatre Company]). JRT is strongly committed to sharing the Jewish story and works cooperatively with schools and educational programs in that regard. JRT's own educational efforts include providing youth classes in Theatre and Improvisation. It is through these works that JRT hopes to articulate the Jewish experience in America and detail the efforts of Jewish artists to reflect the vibrant Jewish community.
www.jewishrepertorytheatre.com