If Not Now, When? Delivers Performing Arts with a Purpose
On June 7, the JCC safely welcomed guests home to our Daniel M. Soref Community Hall for our first in-person Tapestry event since the pandemic began. The premiere of If Not Now, When?, both live and virtually, was a much anticipated collaboration with the Milwaukee Rep. Written by our own Judaic Education Director Jody Hirsh, this concert event examined the themes of justice and equity through the wisdom of the Jewish text, Pirkei Avot, the teachings of our fathers.
The truly unique and exciting twist is that these themes were presented through a timely and uplifting story of hope and given voice through some of Broadway’s most cherished songs. The event, view by over 215 households, was beautifully directed by Malkia Stampley and included an outstanding cast of 18 performing artists from around the country – including Tony Award-winners and nominees with impressive Broadway credits.
Stampley shared her personal connection to the production. “The universal themes from Pirkei Avot: ‘If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? and If not now, when?’ resonate so strongly today in our daily thoughts on social justice and equity.”
Ethical wisdom, imparted long ago yet relevant even today, came alive in If Not Now, When? Interspersed throughout the concert, viewers saw images from past and present representing our history and the pursuit of justice. Photos from last summer’s Black Lives Matter marches, our Jewish Community Pantry on Center Street, and vivid reminders of the Holocaust align seamlessly with songs like “Til We Reach That Day” (Ragtime), “If I Were A Rich Man” (Fiddler on the Roof), and “You Will Be Found” (Dear Evan Hansen). Audiences walked away questioning our own actions and beliefs—striving to do better and be a voice for change. As one viewer shared after the in-person showing: “It was moving, intelligent, and educational, but most of all compassionate.”
Tapestry, Arts & Ideas truly lived its mission. We are deeply grateful to our presenting sponsor, the Libby Temkin Endowment for the Arts, for their vision and support for this program. The event was provided additional support by the Daniel M. Soref Charitable Trust and the Suzy B. Ettinger Foundation.
Read more Stories from the JCC 2020-21 Annual Report
Learn more about Tapestry: Arts & Ideas from the JCC
