My Grandfather’s Prayers

Author(s):

My Grandfather’s Prayers is a theatrical production based on the life of Cantor Izso Glickstein (1890–1947), a Jewish Ukrainian prodigy who finds his way to Boston where his powerful golden voice expresses the passion and determination of a people holding on to faith and tradition through the violent diaspora of the twentieth century. Izso’s remarkable story is told from the point of view of his granddaughter, Lisa Sturz, a professional puppeteer exploring her own Jewish ancestry, artistry, spirituality, and responsibility. Lisa uses shadow puppets, scrolling backgrounds, mixed media, and poetry to connect with her Jewish past through the extant recordings of her renowned grandfather.
Format: Full-length multi-media (intended for adults and older teens and includes a facilitated discussion)
Cast Size: 2 puppeteers

Snapshot

Notes:

Izso Glickstein’s life journey started in the Ukraine during the time of the pogroms, spanned both World Wars, and ended up in Boston where he was an early influence on Leonard Bernstein.

Original or Prominent Production: June 17, 2017 at the Jewish Community Center in Asheville, NC.
Original Source Material: Family photos, interviews, and clippings.
Nationality of Author:
Original Language: English
Production Rights Holder:

Contact Lisa Sturz via the Red Herring Puppets website.

Experience(s) Chronicled: