Making dreams come true

The Guild Theater stages its support of the Make-a-Wish organization.

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
The Guild Theater is reprising its 2005 smash hit production of Smoke and Mirrors, a musical for children and grown-ups alike. Just in time for Hanukka, the Guild is dedicating a portion of the event's proceeds to Mishelet Lev/Make-a-Wish, Israel, in honor of the organization's 10th anniversary. "This production celebrates wishes coming true, and we are thrilled to support Mishelet Lev's mission of granting wishes to children in Israel who have life-threatening illnesses," says director Robert Schenck. Returning by popular demand, this family-oriented extravaganza retells the classic tale of Cinderella from a fresh and witty perspective. The original production delighted audiences and received strong reviews during its premiere run two years ago. The Guild Theater, founded in 1995, recognizes the demand for quality English-speaking theater in Israel. It plays to the Anglo-Saxon community, as well as to the growing population of bilingual Israelis. Professional playwright Jodi Schenck created the enchanting Shrek-like tale of Prince David Charming (Nadav Oved), who must marry but wants to meet "a girl with brains." Things get out of hand when his best friend, Cosmo, is turned into a dog. But his luck changes when he meets the beautiful Ella (Jaimie Fox) and finds that her magic cat, Selena, is more than a match for any dog. Add the arrival of Ella's fairy godfather to save the day, and you have a rollicking good time for children of all ages. The cast comprises professional actors from around the globe, from Israel to South Africa, Great Britain to the US. Simon Shocket and Limore Badin reprise their roles as Cosmo and Selena. Guild stalwarts Bibi Linevitz, Rashi Rosenweig and Daniella Roman also return in their much-lauded roles, alongside the fresh talent of new actors, such as recent immigrant Sascha Friedman. Award-winning composer Pnina Isseroff provides an impressive catalogue of original music and lyrics, professionally arranged by BAFTA award winner Igor Dvorkin. Smoke and Mirrors will be performed at the Mishkan Theater in Ra'anana, Hol Hamoed Hanukka, for matinee (11 a.m.) and afternoon (5 p.m.) performances on December 18 and 20. To purchase ticket in advance, call (09) 774-6612.