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The Joey Fischer Mainstage Series

THE MELTING POT 

By Israel Zangwill (adapted by Jesse Bernstein)

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Co-Produced by Philadelphia Artists Collective

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Made possible in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts

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In 1908, Zangwill's play helped popularize the idea of America as a great "melting pot", and Theodore Roosevelt hailed the work as a "great play." Now, Theatre Ariel partners with Philadelphia Artists' Collective to bring Zangwill's play back to life. It tells the story of David, a young Jewish-Russian immigrant, who is working on a symphony inspired by America's welcoming of people from all over the world. But his dreams for America's future may be derailed when he encounters nightmares from his Russian past. Can America truly be a fresh start? Will he be able to actually live the ideals of his music? 

 

Presented as part of AMERICA 250.

October 21 - November 8, 2026
Arch Street Meeting House
320 Arch Street, Philadelphia
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