“A friend is one soul abiding in two bodies.” Diogenes’ musings about friendship are aptly discussed in Aaron Posner Chaim Potok’s play The Chosen, based off of Potok’s novel by the same name. Two young men become friends through very unlikely circumstances, and while their upbringings are very different, they connect in so many ways. Directed by Mario D’Alimonte, The Chosen is a fascinating look at friendship, religion, and what a difference five blocks can make.

The Chosen starts off in 1944, and spans several years after that, including the end of the Second World War. The play discusses the rise in Zionism, specifically around the desire for the creation of a Jewish state in response to the horrors which occurred during WWII. The play shows two very different opinions on this matter, with one father vehemently supporting the idea and the other so opposed to it that he bans his son from seeing his friend as a result. These discussions are likely to make audiences uncomfortable, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis, however is this not the goal of art? To make us think, reflect, and have discussions about what we see and how it makes us feel? It should be kept in mind that what the characters are discussing is a moment in history, and not a direct commentary on what’s happening in the now. 

Reuven Malter loves baseball; he plays on his Modern Orthodox school team and eagerly awaits each game. He’s heard of Daniel Saunders from the Hassidic school and his reputation for being a fierce baseball player. However it’s not until Daniel get a hit and it drives straight back at Reuven and breaks his glasses that the two really get to interact. While Reuven heals from his injury, the two become friends: playing chess, talking about books, even going to college together. It’s their fathers ideologies which eventually drive them apart, making them utterly miserable. Their reconciliation is far more than just the two boys being allowed to be friends again, it includes a seismic shift in the lives of their parents as well. Emotionally charged with a great sense of humour, The Chosen reminds us that sometimes it’s the most unlikely friendships which are the strongest.

Ari Weisberg’s set design and Liza Zawadska’s costumes visually demonstrate the distance between the worlds the young men inhabit. We see the dining room at the Saunder’s home, with the books neatly and deliberately set in rows. It embodies the cold, reserved lifestyle which Daniel describes to Reuven. Whereas we see David Malter’s office, with a large desk and books piled on every flat surface (including the floor). There is a sense of coziness and safety, which both Reuven and Daniel seem to feel as well. 

The historical period in which this play takes place is so tumultuous, however The Chosen provides a very specific lens through which to view these events. Because much of this period is taught to us in History class as a set of facts and figures to examine, The Chosen asks us instead to consider the emotional side to it as well: the relief at hearing the end of the war mixed with the deep sadness at the loss of President Roosevelt a mere month before, and most of all the abject horror of the mounting death toll with the news each day. The emotional heartbeat of The Chosen is a strong one, which also manifests itself in impressive performances. 

Daniel Goldman stars as Reuven Malter; acting as both participant and narrator, Goldman has to slip in and out of the story as he gives little asides to the audience. Goldman’s charm and sincerity shine through Reuven, making it clear why Daniel would want to be his friend. Kayne Wylie’s performance as Daniel Saunders is simultaneously heartrending and inspiring, as we see a young man who is so curious about the world yet has to hide that desire daily. Wylie gives an understated passion to Daniel, showing a clear difference in how he and Reuven have been raised. Eddy Morassutti’s David Malter is a true academic; supportive of Daniel’s curiosity and vehement about his passions, it’s easy to see where Reuven gets his spark from. Morassutti brings a Mr. Rogers-like warmth and calm to his character. Jamie Sherman’s performance as Reb Saunders is astounding. His impassioned speeches in the second act of the play will bring tears to your eyes as he finally unfolds his heart and mind to his son. 

The Chosen is proof that by opening our hearts and minds to one another, no matter the cultural differences, we better each other. Reuven and Daniel’s lives, along with the lives of their fathers, become more rich and full with the other family as a part of them. Inspiring and hopeful, you’ll be thinking about The Chosen long after you leave the theatre.

For more information and tickets, visit: http://teatrontheatre.com

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Cover photo by Larry Westlake

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