A work-in-progress comedy show about Manchester’s first ever female rabbi and her struggle for acceptance.
Part of Manchester Jewish Museum’s ‘Synagogue Scratch’ season
Ellie Silver is a writer, actress, and comedian from Manchester. She has been nominated for the 2022 Funny Women Comedy Writing Award and the 2020 Channel 4 Writing for Television Award. Her work draws on stand-up comedy, women in comedy, cultural identity, and mental health. Her new comedy sitcom, which she will present at Manchester Jewish Museum, tells the story of Manchester’s first ever female rabbi, who struggles to be accepted by her traditional congregation.
Instead of being allowed to stay in her beloved London, Bethaney Shapiro is appointed as the new rabbi at her childhood synagogue in Manchester. Although reform, the congregation at Mount Sinai Synagogue is notoriously traditional and reluctant to welcome her with open arms.
Written for TV, the series will be enjoyed equally by Jewish audiences and those who know nothing about Jewish culture. The success of shows such as ‘Friday Night Dinner’ and ‘Grandma’s House’ demonstrates the trend for Jewish-themed comedies, while highlighting the untapped potential of Northern, female-led Jewish stories. Like these, ‘Beth’s Din’ will pique the interest of anyone who has ever been curious about British Jewishness but was afraid to ask.
After the performance we invite you to meet the artist, have a chat and tell us what you think over a drink! This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a sitcom in development and see work that hasn’t been shared before. Your feedback will be used to support the artist’s development of the piece.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Please note that this performance may contain adult themes and strong language. The recommended age for this performance is 16+.
The doors will be open from 6PM on the day of the performance. The museum Cafe will be selling food as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The event will begin at 7pm and finish at 8:30pm.
This performance has been written for a TV production and is still a work in progress. During the evening event you will get the unique chance to see the first episode performed live (script in hand) in our former synagogue. The performance will last 30 minutes. The performance will be followed by an evening of conversation with the artist, so you can help develop and grow the piece – exciting! As part of the ticket price, you will receive one drink (white or red wine, beer or tea/coffee) for after the show.
Please note, that this event takes place at our historic synagogue with on-side seating. The synagogue will have seating areas for those with accessibility needs to enjoy the performance. Please e-mail [email protected] ahead of the event to arrange for any additional accessibility needs.
Book tickets for Beth’s Din at Manchester Jewish Museum
