Great Performances Season 38 Episode 53
Great Performances
Season 38

Ep 53. The Thomashefskys

  • March 29, 2012

The Great Performances season 38 episode 53 is titled "The Thomashefskys." It is an exploration of the cultural impact made by Boris Thomashefsky and Bessie Thomashefsky, one of the most influential theatrical couples in the history of Yiddish theater.

The episode takes the audience on a journey through the lives of Boris and Bessie, who were both major stars in the Yiddish theater scene in New York City during the early 1900s. Their careers lasted for decades, and they gained a huge following among audiences of Yiddish-speaking Jews, both in America and around the world.

The episode features a variety of archival footage and interviews with experts in the field of Yiddish theater, as well as with members of the Thomashefsky family. Viewers will learn about the couple's upbringing, their work together as actors and producers, and the major developments that occurred in Yiddish theater during their lifetimes.

In addition to providing a chronicle of the Thomashefskys' lives, the episode also explores the broader cultural and historical significance of their work. The couple's productions and performances helped shape the popular imagination of Eastern European Jewish culture in America. They reflected the struggles, triumphs, and everyday experiences of the Jewish immigrant community in the United States and contributed to the strengthening of Jewish cultural identity.

The episode also touches on the challenges and controversies that Boris and Bessie faced during their careers. This includes censorship by the Yiddish theater community, criticism from religious leaders, and disagreements with fellow artists over the direction of Yiddish theater. However, despite the difficulties they faced, the couple remained committed to their craft and continued to produce shows that resonated with audiences and contributed to the development of Yiddish theater.

Overall, "The Thomashefskys" is an engaging and informative look at the lives and work of two remarkable figures in the history of Yiddish theater. It serves as an important reminder of the cultural contributions made by immigrant communities in America and demonstrates the power of the performing arts to unite people and promote understanding. The episode will appeal to anyone interested in the history of American theater, Jewish culture, or the immigrant experience.

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Description
  • First Aired
    March 29, 2012
  • Language
    English