Monya Tsatskes - Standard-Bearer

Age restriction: 16+

“Monya Tsatzkes – The Standard-Bearer” is a contender for the Golden Mask theater award.

Performances will take place in Israel from October 16 to 24!

“Monya Tsatzkes – The Standard-Bearer” is a play where Ephraim Sevela’s distinctive Jewish humor, outstanding acting, and gripping plot create a unique theatrical atmosphere. The production, which has won audiences’ affection over several seasons, is coming to Israel for the first time.

The protagonist is Monya Tsatzkes, a young Jewish man. He does not seek heroism and does not resemble a typical hero at all. His strength lies in his intelligence, resourcefulness, and boundless love of life. Wherever Monya finds himself, he always finds a reason to smile and a way to remain true to himself.

The play is based on the work of the same name by Ephraim Sevela, a renowned writer, screenwriter, and director whose works are beloved by readers around the world. His best-known works include Legends of Invalid Street, Stop the Plane—I’ll Get Off, and others.

After emigrating from the USSR in 1971, Sevela lived in Israel for several years and took part in the Yom Kippur War.

The Moscow Jewish Theater Shalom has faithfully conveyed the author’s unique style and transformed the well-known work into a thrilling theatrical event. In this production, the stage and auditorium seem to merge: the actors communicate with the audience, who sometimes become participants in the action.

The play is full of humor, unexpected plot twists, and familiar character types. It tells a story of friendship, love, and staying true to oneself, as well as a person’s ability to preserve dignity and hope in any situation.

The production was nominated for the Golden Mask in two categories: directing and acting.

“Monya Tsatzkes – The Standard-Bearer” has become a symbol of this new wave: it is a lively and intelligent play in which Ephraim Sevela’s classic work sounds contemporary.

The production features leading Theater actors who portray a wide variety of characters, creating a unique interaction with the audience.

Cast

• Anton Schwartz — Monya Tsatzkes, Reb Moyshe
• Nikolai Tarasyuk — Fima Shlyapentokh, Political Officer Katz, Shleime Gakh
• Anton Ksenev — Sergeant Kachura, Lieutenant Colonel Shtanko, Zepp Singer, Ivan Budraytis, Postman Valyunas, Lieutenant Brokhes, Narrator
• Karina Pestova — Glafira, Marya Antonovna, Tsilya Pizmanter, Firochka, Narrator

Creative Team

• Director — Oleg Lipovetsky
• Playwright — Lara Bessmertnaya
• Set Designer — Vanya Bowden
• Lighting Designer — Maksim Biryukov