Trayf
by Lindsay Joelle
Directed by Aaron Sparks
New Jewish Theatre
September 20, 2024
Jacob Schmidt, Bryce A. Miller
Photo by Jon Gitchoff
New Jewish Theatre
The New Jewish Theatre’s latest production is a look at loyalty, devotion, and friendship, as well as the conflicts between devout religious faith and more worldly pursuits. While Trayf is set in a specific time, place, and in a particular sect of Chasidic Judaism, there are several universal themes here that are relatable regardless of your particular cultural or religious background. The thoughtful, thought-provoking script is best at highlighting a particular friendship among the two main characters, and this production from NJT features some strong performances as well as excellent production values to bring the audience into the world of these intriguing characters.
The story is set in Brooklyn and Manhattan in 1991. Zalmy (Jacob Schmidt) and Schmuel (Bryce A. Miller)–or “Schmuely” to his friends–are two young best friends who grew up together as part of the Chabad-Lubavitch Chasidic Jewish community in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. As the story begins, they sit in their rented “Mitzvah Tank” preparing to go out in the community as “Lamplighters” doing good deeds with the hope of awakening the “Jewish souls” of Jewish people in the outside world. They geek out over tapes of their leader, Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson, and share their enthusiasm for their cause, although it becomes clear early on that Zalmy has more interest in the outside world, expressing curiosity about celebrities, “secular music”, and more. Soon, the friends meet Jonathan (Spencer Sickmann), a disenchanted employee at a music store who was raised Catholic, but has discovered that his recently deceased father had Jewish ancestry. Zalmy is fascinated with Jonathan’s experience in the wider world, and while Jonathan gets more absorbed in the world of Chasidic Judaism, Zalmy is eager for mixtapes, Broadway theatre tickets, stories of Jonathan’s amorous exploits, and more. Meanwhile, Schmuel becomes bothered by his friend’s increasing interest in spending time with their new “student”. Jonathan’s newfound interest in Judaism also upsets his girlfriend, Leah (Annie Zigman), who is Jewish herself, but not Chasidic. As the relationship between the Zalmy and Schmuel and Jonathan develops, tensions rise, and the foundations of friendship and deeply held beliefs are tested.
This is a story of challenged loyalties, reasons for devotion, and the question of balance between devout religious faith and a believer’s relationship with the outside world. This is a theme that can be relatable not only for Jewish people, but also for adherents of many religions and religious communities. It’s also a tale of a close lifelong friendship, and the challenges the friends face as they grow up and react to their environment differently. This is also a relatable experience for many, regardless of religious faith. It’s also a vivid depiction of a particular time and place in American history, and the early 90’s vibe is well maintained by means of Lily Tomasic’s eye-catching set, Kareem Deanes’s ear-catching sound design, and Michel Friedman Siler’s detailed costumes. Michael Sullivan’s lighting also adds much in the way of atmosphere and tone to the unfolding story.
The script is fascinating and intriguing, and the focus on Zalmy and Schmuel is its strongest point. The actors who play these roles portray a palpable sense of connection and bond, with Schmidt’s eager, curious Zalmy and Miller’s enthusiastic but more cautious Schmuel both turning in excellent portrayals. Sickmann is also strong as Jonathan, although it doesn’t seem like his role is given an adequate resolution. Zigman is also memorable in her one scene as the conflicted Leah. It’s a strong cast all around, and the characters–especially the main two–drive the plot, so the casting is essential.
Trayf offers a lot to think about, as well as a window into life in a religious community that isn’t especially well-known in 2024. It’s an insightful look at devotion in various forms–to religious faith, to friends and family, to community, and to one’s personal ideals and goals. What stands out the most, though, is the central relationship, with richly drawn characters who are relatable and believable, even if audience members don’t share their particular beliefs or life experiences. This is a fascinating play, and a thoughtfully staged, well-paced production from New Jewish Theatre.
Jacob Schmidt, Spencer Sickmann
Photo by Jon Gitchoff
New Jewish Theatre
The New Jewish Theatre is presenting Trayf at the J’s Wool Studio Theatre until September 29, 2024
