It was the end of a long week and I was ready and even in need of some light relief. Together with my 20-year-old daughter Sharon, I readied myself for an evening of entertainment, although unsure of what to expect. As we entered the Tzavta theater it was immediately apparent that the performance would be informal. The cast mingled with the audience, greeting them and handing out chocolates while other cast members organized their props on stage. The audience was mixed; mainly English speaking, with the majority under the age of 25.
The lights dimmed, to be followed by 90 minutes of short sketches each lasting between 30 seconds and 7 or 8 minutes. Most of these sketches reflected human behavior and its flaws, life's absurdities and man's constant search for love and escape from loneliness. The cast was young and professional; they performed with great comic timing - testimony to the importance they ascribed to genuine teamwork and mutual respect for one another. The program reminded me of a cross between Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, the American TV sketch show from the 1960s and 70s and the British satirical TV show That Was the Week That Was, which aired in Britain and the US in the 1960s.
Sharon and I related differently to the sketches themselves. She was thoroughly involved, audibly enjoying the very physical, slapstick humor. The verbal text was unsophisticated and the punch lines were clearly delivered, much to her delight. I too was entertained and although several of the sketches were predictable, I found joy in seeing the cast's polished delivery of a comic classic. Some sketches showed great originality and creativity and were performed using song, music, drama, dance, mime and even a hint of gymnastics.
The predominantly young audience enthusiastically received the cast of eight. Their English was excellent, although the majority were not native speakers. As we left the theater the cast was waiting outside to bid us farewell, take photographs with members of the audience and chat over a glass of wine or juice.
I went home uplifted, entertained and with a smile on my face. National Theater it wasn't, but for a relaxing evening of light entertainment I would warmly recommend Tziporela.
Next performances are at Tzavta Theater, Tel Aviv on December 28th and February 3rd.
For information: www.tziporela.com; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; tel: 054 779 0713