Israel Lands Authority Cancels Shlomi Shabat Musical Over Women Singing Concerns

The Israel Lands Authority (ILA) has canceled a planned musical performance based on the songs of Israeli artist Shlomi Shabat for its upcoming employee event before Rosh Hashanah. The musical, titled "Because of the Wind," was intended as a family-friendly show featuring Shabat's hits, dance performances, and a romantic storyline set on a Tel Aviv beach. However, the ILA's new management decided to replace the show, citing concerns about modesty and the inclusion of women singing, despite the musical containing no inappropriate scenes or language.

Sources familiar with the decision indicated that the cancellation reflects the preferences of the new leadership under Yehuda Eliyahu, a close associate of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Eliyahu currently serves as acting head of the ILA after the High Court of Justice rejected his formal appointment. The ILA stated that the change aims to accommodate all employees and create an inclusive, unifying atmosphere at the event.

"Because of the Wind" is an Israeli musical produced by the Hebrew Theater and the Northern Theater, directed by Gadi Tzadaka with choreography by Michal Amdursky. It tells a love story between a musician and a dance teacher and features Shlomi Shabat himself. The cancellation has sparked questions among ILA staff about the reasons behind the decision and its connection to the organization's new leadership and political affiliations.