Photo Coverage: First Look at Long Wharf Theatre's MY NAME IS ASHER LEV

Long Wharf Theatre are presenting My Name is Asher Lev, by Aaron Posner and adapted from Chaim Potok's 1972 novel, directed by Long Wharf Theatre Artistic Director Gordon Edelstein until May 27 on their Mainstage. The official opening is on May 9, but check out these production photographs from the preview performances below.

Asher Lev, a young man with a true artistic calling, is torn between his deeply observant Hasidic Jewish community and the passionate need to paint. When the boy runs afoul of his family and tradition by attempting to embrace his gift, he is forced to make the difficult choice between faith and art. Based on the classic novel by the author of The Chosen, My Name is Asher Lev was described by the Philadelphia City Paper as "A fascinating coming-of-age story seamlessly blended with a debate about the nature of art... This is a marvelous evening of theatre: intimate, sincere, magical."

"I was looking for a play with gravitas, high literary content and seriousness of purpose. Happily, I found an adaptation of a much loved and much read novel by a distinguished writer. My Name is Asher Levis a beautiful story about the coming of age of an artist whose God-given gift is in conflict with his strict religious upbringing," said Artistic Director Gordon Edelstein. "The play asks timeless questions about community, God, family and artistic talent."

The creative team is comprised of Eugene Lee (sets), Ilona Somogyi (costumes), Chris Akerlind (lights), John Gromada (sound and original composition), and Bonnie Brady (stage manager.)

For more information about Long Wharf Theatre's 2011-12 season and to book tickets, visit www.longwharf.org or call 203-787-4282.