Review: New Century's MY NAME IS ASHER LEV Elicits Powerful Emotion from the Unfamiliar

I doubt that many of us these days have such a rigid upbringing that our passion causes us to question our ideals. Sure there are people with strict ideologies but we live in a more inclusive and forgiving world (most of us) and usually our beliefs follow suit with our wants. Which is why Aaron Posner's play "My Name is Asher Lev", currently being performed by New Century Theatre Company, with its juxtaposition of strict religious beliefs against passionate art might come across as a bit foreign to most of us and a potential hard sell. But thanks to the usual talent and commitment from the folks at NCTC even this unfamiliar tale can resonate with power.

Adapted from the novel by Chaim Potok the play follows the upbringing of Asher Lev (Conner Neddersen), a young Hasidic Jew raised by his strict orthodox parents (Bradford Farwell and Amy Thone) in the 1950's. Young Asher has always followed the teachings of his parents and religion but as he grows he finds a passion for art that comes at odds with his upbringing. Iconic images that go against his faith begin to surface in his work putting him down a path that may make him choose between his faith or his art.

The play itself is a bit tough for non-Jewish people to grab onto right away. The show is so engrained in this unfamiliar world that there's even a glossary of terms you might not know in the program. But familiarity or not, director Sheila Daniels put so much energy and focus into the work that what shines through is a very real struggle that culminates into some incredibly powerful moments.

But then how can you expect anything less than powerful moments from the small cast of NCTC usual suspects. Neddersen has never ceased to blow me away whether in small or large roles ever since I saw him in "Mary's Wedding" some years back and this is no exception. He takes on the lion's share of the play as he never leaves stage and quite deftly shows not only the age arc of the character but the emotional and ideological growth as well. And his culminating reveal near the end was so powerful it brought tears to my eyes. Farwell manages not only the committed but loving father but other supporting characters as well each with their own vibrant life. And Thone, who also takes on multiple roles, manages such power and grace in every moment and communicates so much often times in complete silence.

You can usually bank on a riveting evening of theater from the folks at New Century Theatre Company but considering their company is made up of the cream of the crop of Seattle artists it's no surprise. And even as unfamiliar the world of "My Name is Asher Lev" may be, I still found the production to be riveting and heartfelt which is why with my three letter rating system I give them a solid YAY. A powerful piece presented with heart and commitment. So, par for the course from NCTC.

"My Name is Asher Lev" from New Century Theatre Company performs at 12th Avenue Arts through May 21st. For tickets or information visit them online at www.wearenctc.org.

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