Former Actor Turned Rabbi Leads Inclusive Haredi Theater and New Play on Rabbi Ovadia Yosef
Ofer Halevi, 59, a resident of Elad and father of nine, has had a unique journey from a secular upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in the Haredi community. Raised in the Tel Aviv neighborhood of Hatikva and later living in Kibbutz Ein Harod, Halevi served as an artillery battalion commander in the IDF and fought in the First Lebanon War. A personal trauma following the death of a close friend led him to seek deeper meaning in life, prompting a return to religious observance despite a flourishing acting career, including performances at the Habima National Theater and winning the Tiroshanto award.
Halevi’s religious transformation halted his secular theater career due to Sabbath observance, but he found fulfillment in spiritual leadership and family life. He is now a rabbi at a synagogue in Elad catering to baalei teshuva (returnees to religious observance) who seek acceptance and authenticity beyond appearances. His nine children represent a microcosm of Israeli society, including professionals, soldiers, and yeshiva students.
About 25 years ago, Halevi co-founded "Mesamechei Lev," the first Haredi theater in Israel, initially facing opposition from rabbis and communities wary of outside influences. Over time, the theater gained acceptance across religious sectors and is now funded by the Ministry of Culture, performing for diverse audiences while maintaining gender-segregated shows. Their productions include a new family play, "Chazon Ovadia," which portrays the life of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, emphasizing themes of personal struggle, faith, and acceptance rather than religious preaching.
The play, developed with input and approval from Rabbi Ovadia Yosef’s sons, Rabbi Avraham and Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, debuted publicly on March 23 at the Holon Culture Hall with attendance from the Minister of Culture and senior rabbis. It aims to bridge cultural divides by presenting Judaism as a message of love and giving, highlighting the value of every individual regardless of status. Halevi’s work exemplifies how culture can unite rather than divide Israeli society.
