Q: How is 7 Stages international in scope?
Del: We just attended the Israeli Drama and International Exposure festival in Tel Aviv earlier this month. We trade directors, actors and students with other theaters in Latin America, Europe and Africa. We've been doing this since the 80's. Now, we are directing our attention toward Israel.
Q: How was your trip to Israel?
A: The trip was amazing. I can’t wait to get back. I could not believe the mix of cultures and the vibrancy and happiness within Tel Aviv. The energy and vitality of the people was astonishing. I had many conversations about the relationship between the US and Israel in coffee shops and over dinner. Everyone was very open about recent Gaza events, and expressed their frustration over fear of the sirens and running for the bomb shelters. I also found it very interesting that there is an interest among writers in Israel to write love stories. I asked why? Why does this dominate the culture so much? These questions are ones that Faye and I will seek to explore with the productions that we will bring and send to Israel. I would like to explore the themes of war and Israeli policy among the young people that writers include in their plays.
Q: What, if any, future collaborations do you have planned with Israeli theater groups?
Del: First, funding and support from the Atlanta based community is essential to allow any further collaboration with Israeli theater and stage productions. However, we currently have plans to invite a few productions next fall, and plans to produce some plays with other producers and playwrites. We also plan to direct Atlanta actors within the Jewish community or even go back to Israel to do the same there. This summer we are hosting 2 high school students and a teacher from Israel. We are looking to send 2 high school students and a teacher to Israel, but we need funds to do so.
Q: What was a truly memorable experience for you in Israel?
Del: The sea of umbrellas that emerged in Jerusalem and the shocking amount of rain that occurred in a city on the edge of a desert. The food and “appetizers” as well as the overall restaurant experience were beyond expectation.