Episode 25: Schmooze with The Last Yiddish Speaker Producers - Zelda Dean, Laura Schuler & Tracy Smith

What happens when Jewish theatre returns to Calgary after nearly 40 years?In this episode of The Schmooze, Don and Jared sit down with Zelda Dean, Laura Schuler, and Tracy Smith from Chai Life Productions to discuss The Last Yiddish Speaker, the award-winning new production now running in Calgary.But this conversation became about far more than theatre.Together, they explore the disappearance and reemergence of Jewish community theatre in Calgary, the legacy of the Beth Israel Players, mentorship, storytelling, identity, and the role live performance plays in preserving culture and building community.They also discuss why The Last Yiddish Speaker feels especially timely in the post-October 7 world, how modern antisemitism has changed, and why art still has the power to move people in ways social media never can.This was one of the most thoughtful and emotionally resonant Schmoozes we’ve recorded.🎭 Featuring:Zelda DeanLaura SchulerTracy SmithPresented by High Life Productions.📍 The Last Yiddish Speaker runs through June 7 in Calgary.🎟️ Tickets:ChaiLifeYYC.ca