Theater J
About Theater J
Theater J is a nationally-renowned, professional theater that celebrates, explores, and struggles with the complexities and nuance of both the Jewish experience and the universal human condition.
Our work illuminates and examines: ethical questions of our time, inter-cultural experiences that parallel our own, and the changing landscape of Jewish identities. As the nation’s largest and most prominent Jewish theater, we aim to preserve and expand a rich Jewish theatrical tradition and to create community and commonality through theater-going experiences.
Theater J draws audiences from all eight wards of the District, as well as Maryland and Virginia, and reflects the diverse residents of the metropolitan DC region. Theater J is committed to creating partnerships that deepen our connections to our community. Through our Passports Free Ticket Program, we provide over 400 free tickets to reach populations that are historically underserved by arts organizations.
Theater J has been honored with the DC Mayor’s Arts Award for Excellence in an Artistic Discipline, over 70 Helen Hayes nominations and nine Helen Hayes Awards.
About the 2023/24 Season
The 2023-2024 Season at Theater J reflects the richness of our mission. Plays that celebrate, explore, and struggle with the complexities and nuances of both the Jewish experience and the universal human condition. They illuminate and examine ethical questions of our time, inter-cultural experiences that parallel our own, and the changing landscape of Jewish identities.
The season has four world premieres, two East Coast premieres, tour de force performances, and a new adaptation of a beloved film reimagined for the stage with songs. The plays are bold and theatrical, intimate and personal, epic and imaginative.
The Chameleon
October 11-November 5
Nothing says Jewish Christmas more than Chinese takeout. The food tastes even better this year for actor Riz Golden-Kruger and her family – Riz finally got her big break, the starring role in a new superhero franchise, The Chameleon. But when news leaks that could threaten to ruin Riz’s career, she must decide to hide or fight for what’s right. Ignited by the fast-paced frenzy of social media, the play rampages through questions of identity, representation, and the complications of assimilation. The Chameleon is an outrageous, laugh-out-loud intergenerational world premiere.
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Theater J Team
Hayley Finn
Artistic Director, Theater J
David Lloyd Olson
Managing Director, Theater J
Johanna Gruenhut
Associate Artistic Director, Theater J
Kevin Place
Producing Director, Theater J
Jasmine Jones
Director of Patron Experience, Theater J
Hester Kamin
Education Programs Director, Theater J
Jacob Ettkin
Arts Outreach Coordinator
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