Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company Begins COMPULSION OR THE HOUSE BEHIND, 3/2

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company is pleased to introduce their winter weekend production opening on March 2, 2013 with the regional premiere of Compulsion or the House Behind.

The play is set in 1951, and Jewish writer Sid Silver is deeply moved by Anne Frank's diary. He is earnestly determined to share her story honestly with the masses. He becomes embroiled in litigious battles once publishers and producers become involved. Compulsion or the House Behind is a rich mix of history, entertainment gossip, and one man's obsession over a young girl's work of art that doesn't really belong to him. In a unique storytelling fashion, Anne Frank and her family are portrayed by marionettes. Director Hayley Finn states, "I'm excited to be collaborating with Chris Lutter-Gardella on the use of marionettes in the play. Anne Frank represented as a marionette illuminates the ways in which she has become a symbol of lost youth and the power of humanity. The string from which she moves also highlights the ways in which she and her story have been taken over by so many people."

Ms. Finn is the Resident Director and Lab Producer at the Playwrights' Center. She previously directed the world premiere of The Gospel According to Jerry and the regional premiere of The Last Word... at MJTC. Other directing credits in the Twin Cities include Hiding In The Open by Kira Obolensky (History Theatre), ADY by Rhiana Yazzie (Pangea World Theater), Permanence Collection by Kira Obolensky and Ed Bok Lee (Walker Art Center). She holds both a B.A. and M.A. from Brown University.

The role of Sid Silver will be played by Raye Birk who previously appeared in The Last Word... at MJTC. Mr. Birk received his MFA from the University of Minnesota. He's appeared in over 150 television shows and countless Twin Cities Theater Productions as well as regionally around the country. Bethany Ford (Photograph 51 and Women's Minyan) and Matt Rein (My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding) will also return to the MJTC stage for roles in Compulsion or the House Behind. Janaki Ranpura is puppeteer for the show.

Compulsion or the House Behind will run on weekends from March 2 through March 24, 2013.