SEPTEMBER 10th - 14th, 2023
Poster by Robert Sauber
From left, Rebecca Ponticello, Victoria Chaieb and Caleb Hafen in Ellen W. Kaplan’s
“Out of the Apple Orchard,” which is at Actors Temple Theatre starting on Sunday.
Tricia Baron
‘Out of the Apple Orchard’
Sept. 10-14 at Actors Temple Theater, 339 West 47th Street, Manhattan; appletreeseries.com.
Families observing Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, traditionally eat apples and honey, which symbolize sweetness and prosperity. But in “Out of the Apple Orchard,” the lure of fresh fruit initially threatens bitter consequences.
Adapted by Ellen W. Kaplan from the first children’s book in Yvonne David’s Apple Tree series, Mesaper Theater’s production, which opens on Sunday, focuses on 12-year-old Adam Bieman, the son of immigrants living in the Catskill Mountains in 1910. As Rosh Hashana approaches, and Adam’s father becomes too ill to work, the boy begins to steal apples from a neighbor’s orchard. But his conscience troubles him: Can good intentions ever justify a wrong?
Directed by Nicole Raphael, the show features puppetry and live violin music as it follows Adam on a path to a firmer understanding of the New Year’s meaning. Tickets to the shows, which are at 3 and 7 p.m. on Sunday and Wednesday and at 7 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, start at $38.50.
LAUREL GRAEBER
(New York Jewish Week) — Just in time for the High Holidays, a new, family-friendly Jewish play will make its Off-Broadway debut on Sunday, Sept. 10.
“Out of the Apple Orchard” is based on the first book of Yvonne David’s acclaimed “Apple Tree” series. The two-book series — a third is forthcoming — follows the Jewish Bieman family as they immigrate from a shtetl in Lithuania, first to New York City and then to the Catskill Mountains. Adam Bieman, the boy whose family life is chronicled in the series, is inspired by the author’s own son, who was coming of age when she began writing the books.
Premiering at Actors’ Temple Theater (339 West 47th St.) on Sunday, just days before Rosh Hashanah, “Out of the Apple Orchard” explores themes of forgiveness and reconciliation — perfectly timed for Judaism’s annual season of self-reflection. During the Jewish months of Elul and Tishrei, which fall in the late summer/early fall, Jews are encouraged to look within, connect to who they’ve been and who they want to be. “Out of the Apple Orchard” follows a Jewish family at the turn of the last century that is doing just that — and in doing so provides audiences with an opportunity for both fun and introspection.
“This play has so many layers,” director Nicole Raphael told the New York Jewish Week. “It’s all about unfolding the story and its complexities. We really see things from the children’s points of view. They see the sentimentality for the Old Country, but also the harsh reality of pogroms and Cossacks; the love that permeates family life, but also the very real mistakes both adults and children make.”
“The play really asks how to handle mistakes, how to mend your ways,” she added. “To me, this is such an important theme — and especially during Rosh Hashanah.”
The “Out of the Apple Orchard” script was crafted by Ellen W. Kaplan, professor emerita of acting and directing at Smith College, who worked closely with David and Raphael to create a staged version that would bring the philosophy behind the story to the fore.
The play opens with Adam Bieman dreaming that he and his Bubbe are in a sepia-toned photograph. The picture comes alive as the family matriarch relates tales of the shtetl — setting the scene for what is to come. When the play premiered in Orlando in 2016, the staging of this scene was reminiscent of the nightmare sequence from “Fiddler on the Roof.” In the New York production, however, the ancestors aren’t warning of changes to come. Instead, Bubbe is detailing the brutality of the pogroms and the importance of leaving Lithuania for a new life.
The year is 1910, and the Bieman family leave Europe to find their fortunes in America. After a time on the Lower East Side of New York City, though, Adam’s father becomes ill. The Biemans are advised to head to the Catskills, with the idea that mountain air will do Papa a world of good. So they head north.
But the Catskills are as harsh as the city or the shtetl, albeit in different ways. Poverty persists. Papa is still ill. The family is hungry. Adam, tempted by ripe red apples in a nearby orchard, shoves some pieces of fruit under his hand-me-down cap. Later, riddled with guilt, he becomes haunted by his thievery. Through this and other travails, Adam and his family are faced with a central question: How can they retain their moral understanding of the world when hardship abounds?
“The story is almost a continuation of ‘Fiddler on the Roof,’” Raphael said. “Imagine what would happen when Tevye arrived on the Lower East Side — you know, so many immigrants got sick at the turn of the last century. Adam’s Papa was a brilliant tailor, but now he’s sick. Still, he brought his family to America, did everything so they could to thrive. We want the audience to fall in love with Papa, to appreciate him for how he tries to support his family.”
And, indeed, Adam’s Papa cares deeply about his family. He worries about not being able to care for them, conceding eventually that they should help him sew the suits he was once famous for making. “With my family helping me finish the suits, we will not starve,” he says in his central scene. “My heart is kvelling and swelling with love.”
Throughout the play, a fiddler, portrayed by Victoria Chaieb (who both performs and wrote the violin music), follows Adam across the stage, emphasizing his internal process. Ben Rauch composed and orchestrated an original score inspired by traditional Yiddish and Jewish melodies and, to a lesser extent, vaudeville-inspired songs.
Extensive puppetry adds an otherworldly — even mystical — air to the staging, too. For example, as the young protagonist descends into a spiral of guilt over his thievery, a large red bird flutters around him. In the book, Adam simply glimpses a red bird as he dwells on his moral dilemma while at school. “It’s visually thrilling,” author David told the New York Jewish Week. “It represents Adam’s conscience.”
In addition to directing the play, Raphael has created an accompanying curriculum in partnership with Park Avenue Synagogue, where she’s a second-grade Hebrew school teacher. The lessons include themes of teshuva, or repentance, Yiddish culture and the Jewish history of the Catskill Mountains. Eventually, she envisions the play and the curriculum being distributed across the country and used in classrooms everywhere. “I see this as the continuation of our oral history, both for our communities and everyone else in the modern day,” she said. “I’ve been an educator in Manhattan for 15 years at different synagogues; I really feel that directing the play and developing the companion curriculum is like everything I’ve worked on all coming together.”
While the themes of the play are rooted in Jewish culture and history, Raphael and David both told New York Jewish Week they see the play’s overarching theme as a universal one.
“There’s so much upsetting divisiveness in this country,” David said. “I think we need to come together. We’re squandering our lives on anger and discrimination. In the end, we’re all in this world together and it’s up to us to make the best of everything, not the worst.”
“Out of the Apple Orchard” is playing at Actors’ Temple Theater (339 West 47th Street) from Sunday, Sept. 10 through Thursday, Sept. 14. Tickets and info here.
HERITAGE FLORIDA JEWISH NEWS
Photo is from a poster created by Robert Sauber
Audiences who enjoy children’s theater have a new addition to look forward to. Out of the Apple Orchard enjoyed its New York premier last week when it played at the Actor’s Temple Theater to children of all ages.
The play comes from the first book of a four-part children’s book collection, Apple Tree Series, written by award-winning author Yvonne David. Read more about these books on their website.
The production presented is adapted for the stage by Ellen W. Kaplan. Nicole Raphael of The Mesaper Theatre directs this production.
A story with several lessons taught is the centerpiece of this play. It is an enjoyable show to watch because of the story but also the manner in which it is told. Music is provided by a wonderful violin player (Victoria Chaieb) who injects spirited tunes into the story. There is puppetry with an adorable colorful bird which adds to the joy of the tale. Now add to this mix a very talented cast and you have a winning combination for a fabulous show!
Out of the Apple Orchard tells the story of a Jewish immigrant family who arrives in New York City in 1910 after they escape from Lithuania. They come in search of religious freedom but also seeking a new life with golden opportunities.
We see them move to their first home on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Although it is considered to be a vibrant area, it is also over-crowded. This causes the family to make the decision to move upstate to New York’s Catskill Mountains. They bring with them their business in which Papa specializes in making men’s garments.
At the same time, the Papa (Erik Endsley) takes ill. The fresh air of the mountains should be a good remedy for him. But, he becomes too sick to work so money to buy food becomes scarce. When he has a few close calls, the family goes into action. Mama (Lori Leifer) takes care of the children and the house and keeps encouraging everyone. The family’s Bubbe (Alyssa Simon) also encourages all.
Their son, Adam (Caleb Hafen) does what he can to help the family. His sister, Sarah (Emma Kantor) also pitches in to help out. One day, the hunger is getting to Adam. On his way to school, he spots a beautiful apple orchard and he takes some apples from the tree. The family is thrilled with receiving them and plan on making a cake for the up coming Rosh Hashanah celebration. However, once the Farmer (Ken Dillon) who owns the orchard realizes apples have been stolen, Adam is faced with having to confess his offense.
Part of the story involves Adam realizing he has made a mistake. He learns he has to correct his mistake and ask for forgiveness. This starts a new beginning for him and his family.
Happily, Papa recovers. And the family moves on to bring their clothing business to a new life in the Catskill Mountains.
However, the lessons of people caring for and forgiving each other come through beautifully in this show.
As an adult, I truly enjoyed seeing Out of the Apple Orchard. I would like to bring some children to see it. This was a wonderful show to see the week of Rosh Hashana but it would be enjoyable to see anytime of the year.
The stories and lessons learned by children as they are growing up is a feature of the play. Also, the love and connections of family are important to know.
September 14 2023
Eden Grove and The Mesaper Theatre
Born in California, raised in Wyoming, trained at Smith College, in Paris, and NYC, where she spent a total of five years before relocating to Philadelphia, actress Jennifer Summerfield has been focusing her career on theatrical productions adapted from works of literature, having appeared in such classics as Homer’s Odyssey, Kafka’s The Trial, Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Yellow Wallpaper, Daphne du Maurier’s My Cousin Rachel, Joseph Heller’s Catch-22, and Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.
Summerfield’s upcoming show brings her back to New York, for her role in the NYC premiere of Out of the Apple Orchard, presented by The Mesaper Theatre for a limited engagement at Actors Temple Theatre. Based on the award-winning book of the same name by Yvonne David and adapted for the stage by Ellen W. Kaplan as part of the “Apple Tree Series,” the play – which also takes its inspiration from Joseph Stein’s Fiddler on the Roof (itself based on Sholom Aleichem’s Tevye the Dairyman) and A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens – is set in 1910, when the Biemans, a Jewish immigrant family escaped from Lithuania, moves from the Lower East Side of Manhattan to the Catskills’ hamlet of Mountaindale for the fresh country air. Twelve-year-old Adam is hungry, his father is too sick to work, and food is scarce, so he can’t resist the ripe red apples he sees in the orchard on his way to school. But as a result of his decision to feed himself and his family, trouble ensues, and he must make up for his mistake to find forgiveness, human compassion, and a new beginning.
I spoke with Jennifer about the show, her role in it, and her return to NYC, as rehearsals were underway for the opening on September 10.
How did you become involved in Out of the Apple Orchard?
Jennifer: I had worked on a college production of Dancing at Lughnasa with director Nicole Raphael over 20 years ago. We’ve maintained contact with each other over the years and watched each other’s career paths from afar. A year ago, Nicole sent me part of the script, written by a Smith theater professor and mentor Ellen Kaplan, and invited me to audition once all the production dates were in place. I jumped at the chance, not only because of my admiration for Ellen and Nicole, but because of the beauty of the story and creativity of the adaptation.
What do you find most compelling about the story?
There’s such a universality to the story, especially here in a country created by and made up of immigrants. It’s a story of survival through the help and love of community and I find that so beautiful, particularly as interpreted through the poetry and dream-like imagery of the play.
Is there a target audience or age for the show, since it’s focused on the experience of a young boy?
While the play centers around the twelve-year-old protagonist, because it’s such an ensemble-driven production, it truly is a family show, where every character has their moment to take focus. I think no matter what age you are, there are going to be things that move you and make you reminisce about your own life and the people who have made you who you are.
Jennifer Summerfield. Photo by Kyle Cassidy.
Which character do you portray and what are her most relatable qualities?
I play multiple roles, which is something I’ve always enjoyed doing as a performer – finding a way to differentiate between characters through movement and vocal quality. My primary role is as Mrs. Friedland, the wife of the farmer and orchard owner. Her love and care for her husband, as well as her skills at diplomacy and being the rational voice in the midst of chaos, are things that draw me to her and that I think the audience will relate to.
What do you hope the audience takes away from the show?
I hope the audience learns something, as I have during this process, about a point in our history not often discussed, and that they come away with a new appreciation for what immigrants have contributed and continue to contribute to the fabric of our culture – from food to art to language, and so much more.
What is most rewarding about working at the historic Actors Temple Theatre?
When I first stepped into the space, I held my breath. It has such a sense of history and beauty in every corner. The stained-glass windows and photographs of prominent Jewish entertainers on the walls give me such a feeling of awe and a sense that I am a part of this long tradition of storytelling and have been invited into a culture I deeply admire and respect.
The new play is based on the children’s book series by Yvonne David.
Out of the Apple Orchard, a new play by Ellen W. Kaplan based on the first book of the Apple Tree Series by Yvonne David, will make its off-Broadway debut at Actors Temple Theatre September 10-14. Nicole Raphael directs.
According to an official description, “The Apple Tree Series tells the captivating story of a Jewish immigrant family who arrives in New York City in 1910, searching for religious freedom and golden opportunities in the land of America. The series follows the Biemans through four generations, taking them from the vibrant Lower East Side to the scenic Mountaindale hamlet in Upstate New York’s Catskill Mountains.”
Out of The Apple Orchard made its world premiere at the Orlando Repertory Theatre in 2016 and was directed by Kenny Howard.
Casting and further creative team for the New York run of Out of The Apple Orchard will be announced later.
Running from September 10-14 at Actors Temple Theatre.
By: Chloe Rabinowitz Aug. 11, 2023
Eden Grove and The Mesaper Theatre will present the New York Premiere of Out Of The Apple Orchard, an Off-Broadway production based on the first book in the four-part children's book Apple Tree Series written by award-winning author Yvonne David, adapted for the stage by Ellen W. Kaplan and directed by Nicole Raphael of The Mesaper Theatre. The production will play seven performances in total - and run Sunday, September 10th through Thursday, September 14th, 2023, at Actors Temple Theatre. Casting and additional creative team members are soon to be announced. Click Here
Inspired by the timeless works of Joseph Stein's Fiddler on the Roof, Sholom Aleichem's "Tevye the Dairyman," and Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol", the Apple Tree Series tells the captivating story of a Jewish immigrant family who arrives in New York City in 1910, searching for religious freedom and golden opportunities in the land of America. The series follows the Biemans through four generations, taking them from the vibrant Lower East Side to the scenic Mountaindale hamlet in Upstate New York's Catskill Mountains.
Audiences of all ages will be delighted by the tale of Adam Bieman, a young boy who finds himself in trouble due to his mischievous choices that tear at his conscience. We learn that making amends and asking for forgiveness is essential when making mistakes. Out of the Apple Orchard showcases the injustices of antisemitism and highlights the discrimination that is so pervasive in today's society.
The story explores the themes of second chances, perseverance, and the importance of family, encapsulating the immigrant experience through a Jewish lens. With its heartwarming narrative and memorable characters, Out Of The Apple Orchard resonates with audiences, encouraging forgiveness and new beginnings.
Out of The Apple Orchard made its world premiere at the Orlando Repertory Theatre in 2016 and was directed by Tony Award-Winning Producer Kenny Howard.
"Our goal in bringing this series to the stage is to help mitigate the anger and prejudice in our nation through kindness and compassion. Literature, theater, and education are powerful and poignant tools to inspire such change," says Author Yvonne David.
The production features sets and paintings by acclaimed artist Robert Sauber, innovative lighting by Maarten Cornelis. The Stage Manager is Rebecca Ponticello.
Performances of Out Of The Apple Orchard are on Sunday, September 10th at 3:00pm; and 7:00pm; Monday, September 11th at 7:00pm; Tuesday, September 12th at 7:00pm; Wednesday at 3:00pm and 7:00pm; Thursday, September 14th at 7:00 pm. Tickets for "Out of The Apple Orchard" can be purchased online at Telecharge here.