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A Look at “Becoming Eve”: A Groundbreaking Theatrical Exploration

The theater world has witnessed its share of controversies, and one of the most notable recently involved the New York Theatre Workshop’s planned production of Emil Weinstein’s debut play, “Becoming Eve.” This highly anticipated premiere was set to be hosted at the Connelly Theatre in the East Village, but a sudden intervention from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York halted its progress. Surprisingly, many were unaware that the church owned the venue, leading to their statement that “nothing should take place on church-owned property that is contrary to the teaching of the church.”

Undeterred by this setback, NYTW swiftly relocated the production to the Abrons Arts Center on the Lower East Side, where “Becoming Eve” finally debuted on Monday. The production’s arrival is not just timely; it reaffirms the current renaissance in American theater. Weinstein’s work stands alongside other notable contemporary plays like Bess Wohl’s “Liberation” and Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins’ “Purpose,” both of which have drawn considerable acclaim.

It’s easy to get distracted by the exorbitant prices of tickets to big-name productions, which can soar above $900 for a chance to see prominent stars in shows such as “Othello” and “Glengarry Glen Ross.” While these performances may justify their costs, they contribute to a perception of New York theater that can be exclusionary. In contrast, productions like “Becoming Eve,” alongside other recent works, often offer more accessible ticket options through outlets like TKTS and TDF, providing a richer theatrical experience at a fraction of the cost.

At its core, “Becoming Eve” tells the compelling true story of Abby Chava Stein, a trans rabbi, chronicling her transition from a Hasidic upbringing to becoming a distinguished figure within the LGBTQIA+ community. This narrative finds its roots in Stein’s own 2019 memoir, setting the stage for a profound exploration of identity and acceptance.

Weinstein’s adaptation focuses on a pivotal moment in Chava’s life, encapsulated in a roughly two-hour conversation with her rabbi father, played by Richard Schiff. Set in a modest second-floor synagogue, the confrontation is mediated by another rabbi, Jonah (Brandon Uranowitz), adding layers to the emotional stakes. Chava’s declaration about her lineage—“My parents are the descendants of the most important men in Jewish history!”—serves as a resounding reminder of the weight of family legacy.

In an intriguing twist, Chava seeks to draw parallels between her relationship with her parents and the biblical story of the Akedah, interpreting Abraham’s near-sacrifice of Isaac as an act of transformation rather than mere loss.

The narrative seamlessly interweaves past and present, depicting Chava’s upbringing, the cultural practices of her community, and her arranged marriage to Fraidy (Tedra Millan), with whom she shares a son. Director Tyne Rafaeli effectively utilizes dramatic flashbacks, skillfully interspersed with moments of tension, marked by theatrical thunder and lightning—a creative touch that amplifies the emotional arcs. The design elements by Ben Stanton and UptownWorks contribute to this visual storytelling.

The play opens with a poignant scene of a young Shefele (Chava’s name before transitioning), portrayed through innovative puppetry, giving voice to the internal conflicts of a child who cries out, “I don’t want to be a boy!” This layering of performance enhances the experience, particularly during moments of intimacy later portrayed in Chava and Fraidy’s relationship, showcasing the complexities of love and identity without reducing the characters to mere stereotypes.

The humor in “Becoming Eve” is both refreshing and necessary, particularly in the interactions between Schiff’s Hasidic rabbi and Uranowitz’s “transdenominational Renewal” rabbi. Their comedic timing adds levity while illustrating the cultural contrasts at play, resulting in some of the evening’s most memorable moments.

Schiff’s portrayal of Chava’s father could easily tip into villainy; however, he navigates the character with a depth that reflects the multifaceted nature of parental love, expectation, and rejection. In a season characterized by standout single-character performances, Schiff’s ability to embody sincerity without apparent artifice sets a high bar for theatrical excellence.

“Becoming Eve” invites audiences to contemplate the themes of identity, family, and acceptance, while also celebrating the richness of storytelling inherent in modern American theater. In an age where diverse narratives are essential, this play stands as a testament to the power of personal truth and the transformative nature of art.

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www.thewrap.com