The spectacular new Off-Broadway production of My Name is Asher Lev has quickly become the talk of the town since its premiere on the Westside Theater's Upstairs stage. The Outer Critics Circle award-winning play takes the audiences on a hypnotic journey of struggle, determination and passion. Based on the best selling novel by Chaim Potok, My Name is Asher Lev features masterful direction of Gordon Edelstein. Gordon's gripping storytelling skills along with powerful performances by the actors have earned numerous praises by renowned critics and publications. All theater lovers are eagerly waiting to catch the upcoming installment of the show live this season.
Basis
The play is inspired by Chaim Potok's novel of the same name. Published in 1972, the novel is considered to be one of Chaim's best works to date. Apart from writing novels, Chaim was an accomplished painter as well as a rabbi. Through My Name is Asher Lev, Chaim asserted that the conflict between individualism and tradition is constant. He also believed that the tension between art and religion is a never ending affair. Through his character, Asher, Chaim portrayed the struggles between one's artistic ambitions and society's resistance.
Story
My Name Is Asher Lev revolves around a young Jewish boy Asher who has a special gift for art. However, Asher faces strong criticism from his family as well as community for pursuing his interest in painting. His father, a staunch religious believer, pressures Asher to forgo his passion and pursue a more practical and acceptable path. On the other hand, Asher's mother is torn between her son and husband, not sure whom to support. Despite all odds, Asher continues to struggle for his dream and eventually meets a highly reputed artist, Jacob Kahn, who becomes Asher's teacher, mentor and friend.
Off-Broadway Premiere
After making its world premiere in 2009 at the Arden Theatre Company stage, the play was performed in Maryland as well as Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven. In 2012, the play made its Off-Broadway debut in New York City. It was staged at the Westside Theatre and instantly allured masses to the theatre. The show received critical appraise upon its Off-Broadway debut and won two Outer Critics Circle Award nominations, bagging the ‘Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play Award'. The play also won the John Gassner Award.
The Live Experience
Westside Theatre is renowned for bringing highly exciting and fascinating plays to its stages. The Off-Broadway venue has hosted some of the most celebrated shows over the years and continues to bring award winning productions every season. The venue features two auditoriums including the Upstairs Theater that has a capacity of 299 seats. The facility offers state of the art technology to enjoy intimate theatrical shows. My Name Is Asher Lev tickets are very popular among the theater lovers this season. The audience can make sure to witness a captivating tale unfold at the Off Broadway's Westside Theatre for a memorable experience.