Premiere and Panel: Hester Street at Theater J 

We are pleased to announce HIAS’ partnership with Theater J on the world premiere of the play adaptation of the classic 1975 movie Hester Street. Centering on the experience of a Jewish immigrant couple on the Lower East Side of New York City during the late 19th century, this production examines questions of assimilation and maintaining cultural identity that are universal to the immigrant experience. Filled with humor, heartbreak, and hope, it tells a story that resonates beyond its time and place to connect with stories of immigration today. 

Use the code HIASHESTER for 18% off your ticket purchase. 

Join us for a panel after the 2:00 pm matinee performance to extend the conversation. This panel, presented with the Capital Jewish Museum and HIAS, will illuminate the history of DC’s Jewish immigrants and how they arrived in the DMV, before discussing the issues DC-area immigrants are facing today. 

Featured speakers include: 

• Naomi Steinberg, Vice President of Advocacy & Policy at HIAS
•  Jonathan Edelman, Collections Curator at the Capital Jewish Museum
• Jacob Ettkin, Arts Outreach Coordinator at Theater J

Hester Street powerfully reminds us that we, as American Jews, were refugees too and inspires us to take action for refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers. Don’t miss the world premiere of this unforgettable play! 

If you can’t make the performance and panel on Sunday, April 7, performances are being held from March 27 – April 21.