Laura Rivlin Stars in Israeli Premiere of Award-Winning Play Exploring Jewish-Arab Family Ties
The acclaimed play "All Birds," originally staged nine years ago at France's National Theatre and winner of the prestigious Grand Prix, premiered in Israel last Thursday at Tel Aviv's Beit Lessin Theater. The production, directed by Yair Sherman and translated by Eli Bizawi, will run for a limited 50 performances. The story centers on a young Jewish genetics student who falls in love with an Arab woman, only to uncover a family secret that shakes his identity.
Laura Rivlin, who stars as the grandmother in the play, discussed the complex narrative in an interview on Kan Hadashot's "At Midday" program. She described how the protagonist uses his scientific skills to discover that while he is his father's biological son, his father is not the son of his grandfather, revealing a hidden family truth. Rivlin also reflected on the unique international cast, including actors from Germany, Syria, and Israel, and how rehearsals fostered dialogue among people from historically hostile nations.
Given the play’s sensitive subject matter and its staging less than three years after the October 7 terror attacks in Israel, Rivlin acknowledged the challenges of presenting such a story today. She said, "Today you fear what you say, it becomes chaotic," noting that she has faced online hostility but asserts her right to express her feelings. Despite the tension, Rivlin emphasized the play’s humanistic message, highlighting shared pain and the universal desire for peace and a hopeful future among Jews and Arabs alike.
Critically acclaimed worldwide, including praise from Le Monde as "breathtaking," the Israeli production aims to open dialogue and foster hope amid ongoing conflict. Rivlin concluded with a candid reflection on her emotions, stating, "I have no hatred, I have anger, but not hatred."
