Sarasota Jewish Theatre (SJT) will present a special program to commemorate the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack in Israel. “Heroes and Hostages: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice,” presented in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, The Players Centre, and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, will feature speakers, music, dance, and videos. The program is September 29 at 3:00 p.m. at The Players Centre Studio 1130 at the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To purchase tickets ($75), visit ThePlayers.org or call 941-365-2494. All net proceeds will be donated to a fund for Israeli hostage families. For more information, visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.org. Hosted by actress and director Carolyn Michel, this emotional program will feature Ashira Zehavi’s “Heroes of Israel” performed by Cantor Riselle Bain, a spiritual leader with 23 years of cantorial experience in music, education, and inspiring worship. Jason Cannon, best-selling author and award-winning actor, director, and playwright, will present a work by prominent Israeli author Amos Oz. Dancer Keren Shani-Lifrak will perform a dance to honor her brother, who died in Gaza, and the others who died or were taken hostage on October 7, 2023. SJT Artistic Director Carole Kleinberg will reveal a personal story about her time with the Israel Defense Forces. Sharon Ohrenstein will sing the Rhapsody for Golda concert medley from the original musical “Rhapsody for Golda,” written by Ohrenstein and her composer husband David Ohrenstein. Rachel Zohar Dulin, a prominent speaker, author, scholar and spiritual leader who was born in Israel, will share her unique perspective. Music videos featuring Katherine Michelle Tanner and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale will round out the program.
