Habima Theater Announces 28th "Opening Stage" Festival Program

The Beit Lessin Theater will host its 28th "Opening Stage" festival during Sukkot, from September 27-30. The festival, dedicated to showcasing new Israeli plays, will feature six staged readings of new works and a musical performance. This year's program includes the musical "Improper Habits," based on Gil Riva's autobiography, exploring a journalist's struggles with mental health and family memories against the backdrop of media and glamour. The cast includes Efrat Gosh and Limor Goldstein.

Among the dramatic offerings are "A Covenant" by Tom Salama, about a IDF widower fighting the religious establishment for his son's conversion after surrogacy, and "Praying with the Criminals" by Rachel Keshet, following an educator whose son is accused of violent activities with "Hilltop Youth." An adaptation of Moshe Rosenthal's film "Karaoke," starring Aki Avni and Yoram Toledano, will also be presented.

The festival's comedic side features "Sticky" by Aliza Chanowitz, about an American oleh's adjustment difficulties, and the satirical comedy "Those Standing Aside" by Daniel Ravner, a love story between a political strategist and a politician's partner during an election campaign.

The festival concludes with "Casting Error," a musical performance where theater actors sing songs from musicals in unconventional roles. The opening day also marks the end of the 16th cohort of the theater's playwriting school, with readings of student works. A professional jury will award a prize for the most outstanding playwright.

Over its history, "Opening Stage" has presented over 300 plays, with some becoming regular repertoire items like "Mikveh" and "The Indian Patient." The festival was founded to encourage emerging artists and promote original local writing.