Hebrew Language Skills Lay the Groundwork for Re-entry into the Theater

The impact of Ukrainian and Russian immigrants and refugees on Israel’s cultural landscape cannot be overstated. This week Project Kesher Israel (PKI) was asked to offer one or more ulpans for the many Russian speaking actors (many well known) who have arrived in Israel without any Hebrew language skills. Absent Hebrew, these actors are working as ushers and cleaners. PKI Director, Rabbi Olya Weinstein, thought that the proposal had the potential to lead to a great partnership. She found a wonderful teacher, who will run two new in-person ulpan groups at Gesher Theater in Tel Aviv starting January 25th. This is a very well known theater. Some plays are in Russian but many are in Hebrew based on classic Israeli writers. This ulpan will be the first for some newcomers to Israel who are still in the process of applying for citizenship. For others, it will be a second course, following an introductory government ulpan. Participants will develop a proficiency in Hebrew to improve their career opportunities.