News: World Premiere of "A Shift of Opinion" at Theater for the New City Opens December 19th

Theater for the New City and Crystal Field proudly present the world premiere of A Shift of Opinion, a powerful new play by Vadim Astrakhan, directed by Joe John Battista.

A Shift of Opinion is a historical drama that delves into timeless questions of identity, power, and resistance. It explores the story of Jacob Schiff, a Jewish American banker and philanthropist who confronts the Jewish Massacres in the Russian Empire.

“The story of Jacob Schiff fascinated me, and I saw multiple similarities to today’s events: Russia at war with a smaller neighbor, the Jewish pogroms, the rise of anti-immigrant sentiments in America, and the need for the Jewish State. Additionally, I saw an opportunity to bring to life some of my favorite giants of American literature: Mark Twain, O. Henry, and Jack London,” says Astrakhan.

Set between 1903 and 1917, A Shift of Opinion brings to life the untold true story of Schiff as he secretly funds the downfall of the Russian Empire in retribution for its brutal treatment of Jewish communities. Joining Schiff on stage are historical giants like President Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, and William Hearst, each wrestling with issues of morality, nationalism, and philanthropy that remain strikingly relevant today.

Inspired by true events, this one-act play takes audiences on a journey into the past while raising questions about our present. A Shift of Opinion examines the challenges of loyalty and identity 
faced by immigrants, the moral responsibilities of wealth, and the complexities of activism.

Show Dates:

Opening Night: December 19, 2024 at 8PM.

Schedule: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8PM, Sunday matinees at 3PM

Final Performance: January 5, 2025 at 3PM.

Tickets: 
On sale now at Theater for the New City’s box office and online at https://theaterforthenewcity.net/shows/a-shift-of-opinion/.

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