The Hill of Black Irises — Orna Porat Theater

In the early years of the State of Israel, during the era of austerity and mass aliyah, temporary camps were established throughout the country to receive new immigrants. One such camp appears opposite the moshav of Neta’im, on a beloved hill where the moshav’s children are accustomed to playing.

The moshav’s children find it difficult to accept their new neighbors, who are so different from them. Their first encounter gives rise to wariness, fear, and misunderstanding. Yet it is precisely in this challenging reality, despite linguistic and cultural differences, that a special friendship develops between Yiftach, a boy from the moshav, and Suzy, who lives in the neighboring ma’abara. Yiftach helps her learn Hebrew, while Suzy tells him about the country she was forced to leave. Day after day, they meet, talk, admire the sea, and gradually discover a shared world in which their differences cease to be obstacles.

But one day, an event takes place in the moshav that threatens their friendship and puts it to a severe test.

This touching and gripping play tells of the power of true friendship to overcome prejudice and cultural barriers, and to teach us to see the person behind outward differences. It is a story about a sense of belonging, hope, and dreams, introducing young audiences to an important chapter in the history of the State of Israel and revealing the atmosphere of that era—its ideas, voices, and values.