JOIN USThe moment we took the flight to India, a new war started in Israel,” says Elinor Alam Ben David as Hagar Tishman adds, “Infact we don’t call it ‘war’, it is military mission,” when recently in the city to perform their theatre production Butterfly Kiss.
Straight from the airport, the duo met Metrolife at The Park and spoke about the relevance of performing arts such as theatre in times of war. David, the director says, “It is a very complex situation back home.
While we are here, almost everybody is underground. All artistes are volunteering to perform since art. People need not just a place to run away but an artistic shelter and that is what theatre provides them.” Tishman also feels the same and adds that “all good art has happened in the world after war.
Theatre is not just about performing but also sharing. Especially children’s theatre since they are an audience who react honestly.”
While Tishman has visited Rishikesh and Dharamsala on a previous occassion and exclaims that she is “in love with India,” it was Elinor’s first trip. “I had imagined Delhi to be very crowded but it looks like a luxury city to me,” says the first time visitor.
Both the girls represent the rich culture of ‘children’s theatre’ that is present in Israel and speak highly of Indian children. David says, “We have staged this play in Japan as well. The children there are so different.
They are quiet and listen and will come up on the stage only when asked to do so. Whereas in India the children are quite responsive.”
To this Tishman adds, “The best part is when the play is over and the children hug and thank me. I feel like Madonna,” she says fluttering her eyes.
“I am more calm here (sic),” Tishman chips in when asked about her attraction for India. “People here are gentle and generous.
I think it is in the culture of your land. I learnt Buddhism when I was here last and I missed the spirituality when I was away from this land. And before I leave, I have to shop for my friends,” she says asking about “Where can I find Divya,” without knowing that it’s the name of a brand in men’s vest.
“Men are crazy about it in Israel and also Indian food. We have a lot of Indian restaurants in Israel, but I can’t eat spicy food,” she says grinning as David craves for a shower to beat the heat and Hagar appeals to her to accompany in shopping. Metrolife takes their leave wishing them a happy stay in India!