Imagine a culinary journey that transcends borders, a theatrical experience that feeds both the body and the soul. This is the essence of "Diaspora," a unique dinner and theater production taking place in New York City. It's a poignant exploration of the Jewish Diaspora, weaving together real-life stories of displacement, resilience, and the enduring power of heritage. But, what makes this experience so special? Let's dive in.
At the heart of "Diaspora" are the Lytvynenko family, Dima and Yuliia, who once owned a restaurant and sausage factory in Odessa, Ukraine. Their lives were irrevocably altered by the 2022 rocket attacks amid the ongoing war with Russia, forcing them to flee their home. After finding temporary refuge in Spain, they eventually landed in New York City in early 2024, where they now run Papa Did It, a beef jerky and cured meat company based in Staten Island.
Yuliia Lytvynenko expressed her surprise at how little New Yorkers seem to know about the Jewish community in her hometown. Odessa, she explained, is a "very Jewish city," with numerous Jewish schools and synagogues. This highlights a critical point: the often-overlooked presence and experiences of Jewish communities outside of the commonly known narratives.
"Diaspora" is a project by StoryCourse, a collective of Broadway alumni and entrepreneurs dedicated to sharing the stories of marginalized communities. The production, running for 13 performances throughout November and December at a studio space on West 18th Street, features a four-course meal and theatrical performances inspired by the immigration stories of Jewish families from Iran, Ethiopia, Mexico, and Ukraine. The food, both vegetarian and nut-free, is designed to reflect the culinary traditions of these diverse cultures.
Adam Kantor, the director of "Diaspora," emphasizes the importance of the experience in today's climate. He states, "We’re in really divisive times now in terms of anti-Jewishness and anti-immigration policies. So it feels like this is sort of a latent sociopolitical act, but it’s one that does not aim to be overtly political, necessarily. It aims to bring people together over community and food and heart." The show is inspired by the Passover seder, blending storytelling with a festive meal. StoryCourse was founded in 2017 by Kantor, composer Benj Pasek, and Brian Bordainick. They gained popularity with their virtual "Saturday Night Seder" in 2020, which raised funds for COVID-19 relief.
Charly Jaffe, StoryCourse’s creative director, points out that "Diaspora" embraces the Jewish roots of StoryCourse, especially during a time when many people feel a loss of home. The project highlights the value of Jewish history and heritage.
The other families featured in "Diaspora" include Stephanie and Yvonne Ohebshalom (Iranian roots), Beejhy Barhany (Ethiopian-Israeli), and Fany Gerson (Mexican). The production challenges the audience's preconceived notions of Jewish identity and culture.
Andy Hartman, StoryCourse’s head of operations, hopes the audience will gain a more "expanded understanding" of Jewish people and their food, pushing back against the "Ashkenormativity" that often dominates the perception of Jewish culture in the United States. The four-course meal features recipes from the families, including Persian naan-o-paneer, Ethiopian messer wot, Ukrainian borscht, and Mexican desserts. The dishes will be prepared by Jewish chefs Dave Dreifus and Lottie Gurvis.
Beejhy Barhany, the owner of Tsion Café in Harlem, sees "Diaspora" as an opportunity to celebrate the differences within the Jewish community. She hopes to share the unique flavors and traditions of Ethiopian Jews. Yuliia Lytvynenko hopes to inform the New York audience about contemporary Ukrainian Jewish life.
Director Kantor hopes the audience will be moved by the experience, perhaps even shedding tears over their borscht.
What do you think? Does this project change your perspective on Jewish identity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
