Washington Hebrew is proud to co-sponsor this special screening of Theodor, an opera film by Yonatan Cnaan and Ido Ricklin, about the life of Theodor Herzl, produced by The Israeli Opera, featuring a live vocal performance by its cast alongside the Cafritz Young Artists of Washington National Opera. The performance includes composer Yonatan Cnaan, baritone Oded Reich, and mezzo-soprano Anat Czarny.

The screening will be in the Terrace Theater at the Kennedy Center. Tickets are $25 and go on sale Monday, April 28 at 10:00 am.

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About the Israeli Opera

The Israeli Opera is deeply rooted in the passionate creative struggle of determined, opera-loving pioneers in a nation yet to be born. Today, it stands as a young, vibrant, and internationally recognized institution of artistic excellence, proudly placing Israel on the global opera map.

Opera in Israel began in 1923 when Russian immigrant Mordechai Golinkin conducted the first Hebrew performance of La Traviata in Tel Aviv. Following important early initiatives including American soprano Edis de Phillipe’s establishment of a formal Opera Company, The Israeli Opera was established in 1985.

Approaching its 40th anniversary and led by Music Director Dan Ettinger since 2018, The Israeli Opera has established itself as a center of musical and theatrical quality. The company consistently delivers performances of excellent artistic caliber, while collaborating with leading local and international creative forces and opera houses worldwide. Its productions are known for their innovative staging and contemporary relevance, often addressing themes that resonate with modern Israeli society. Each new production typically runs for an impressive 11 performances, demonstrating both strong public demand and the company’s dedication to reaching broader audiences.

The Israeli Opera performs a rich classical repertoire while also championing original Israeli works. Highlights of recent and upcoming commissions include Theodor by Yonatan Cnaan — depicting events from Herzl’s early life and named one of 2023’s best operas by Opera Now; Mothers by David Sebba – reimagining the stories of Genesis from the perspectives of its women; and The Dybbuk by Yosef Bardanashvili, based on S. An-Ski’s iconic play — bringing this cornerstone of Jewish mystical folklore to the operatic stage.

Cultivating Israeli talent is central to the Opera’s mission. The Meitar Opera Studio serves as a professional development program for emerging vocal artists, providing advanced training and performance opportunities alongside international soloists. Many graduates perform regularly at The Israeli Opera and grace stages of esteemed opera houses worldwide.

The Israeli Opera actively nurtures new generations of opera enthusiasts through education programs for thousands of students and its Young Opera Club for ages 18-35 boasting nearly 5,000 members. With a strong commitment to inclusion, the Opera’s education and community programs serve diverse communities throughout Israel, including dedicated initiatives in Arab towns that promote cultural dialogue through music. Additionally, the Opera in the Community program brings operatic productions to peripheral areas, where local community members perform alongside professionals. The Israeli Opera also presents free open-air performances in Tel Aviv, attended by tens of thousands of spectators.

The Israeli Opera has continuously supported individuals and communities affected since October 2023. The exceptional attendance throughout this challenging period demonstrates the vital importance of cultural institutions during times of hardship. As it looks to the future, The Israeli Opera continues to fulfill its mission of artistic excellence while serving as a healing and unifying cultural force that celebrates Israel’s creative spirit and enriches the nation’s cultural landscape.

About the Washington National Opera

Washington National Opera (WNO) is one of the leading opera companies in the United States. Under the leadership of General Director Timothy O’Leary and Artistic Director Francesca Zambello, the company presents compelling works at the highest levels of artistry across three theaters at the Kennedy Center, balancing the standard repertory with new and infrequently performed works. Each season the WNO seeks to shape the future of opera through commissioned American works and various special concerts, youth operas, and events.

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