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Post October 7: Jewish Theater Identity and Hard Conversations



What if the most powerful way to fight antisemitism in the arts… is by showing Jewish joy?


In this episode of Inclusive STAGES, I sit down with actor, singer, and theater advocate Ari Axelrod. Together, we explore Jewish representation in theater, the double standards fueling antisemitism in the arts, and how telling stories of joy, resilience, and cultural contribution can be as impactful as confronting hate.



Ari shares his journey from growing up in a theater-loving family to performing sold-out shows worldwide, and how his work has evolved in response to events like the Tree of Life shooting and the October 7th tragedy. With candor and clarity, he offers practical insights on navigating difficult conversations, building bridges across communities, and holding multiple truths in an increasingly polarized industry.


Through stories, examples, and actionable advice, we explore why inclusion in theater is not just about who is cast, but also about how we engage, listen, and tell the full story of a community —its history, struggles, and joys. And be sure to listen through to the end as Ari shares a heartfelt, generous offer for listeners that you won’t want to miss.


Here’s what we cover:

  • Ari’s path from community theater in Michigan to New York stages and beyond

  • The creation and evolution of A Place for Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway

  • How antisemitism and double standards show up in casting, marketing, and industry culture

  • The role of Jewish joy and cultural heritage in sustaining communities

  • Why inclusive conversations require curiosity over certainty—and months, not minutes

  • Strategies for engaging with those who disagree without sacrificing values

  • Concrete ways non-Jewish theater leaders and artists can stand in solidarity


This episode is thoughtful, courageous, and grounded in lived experience. Whether you’re a performer, producer, educator, or theater leader, it will challenge you to reimagine inclusion beyond statements and token representation toward authentic engagement, equity, and cultural celebration.


I hope it inspires you to see representation not just as a box to check, but as a living, breathing commitment to the communities we serve.


Thanks for listening. And remember, true inclusion isn’t only about fighting against hate. It’s about creating space for joy, identity, and belonging to thrive.




More About Ari Axelrod

The Jewish Week awarded Ari the prestigious "36 To Watch Award," recognizing him as one of the 36 most influential Jews in the United States. His multi-award-winning show, "A Place For Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway," has been performed to sold-out audiences around the world, including such historic venues as the Westport Country Playhouse, Baystreet Theatre, and Birdland Jazz Club. Theatrical credits include: Paper Mill Playhouse, North Shore Music Theatre, Lexington Theatre Company, NAMT, Shabbat on Broadway, and The York Theatre Company. He received the 2022 Bistro Award for Best Theatrical Artistry in Song. Ari is the recipient of the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Julie Wilson Award. Ari’s critically acclaimed album “A Place For Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway” is available for purchase and on all streaming platforms.



Related Episodes


Connect with Ari


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Thanks for joining me on this episode of Inclusive Stages! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help me reach even more theater makers, theater artists, and theater lovers who want to make our industry a better place for everyone.


Thanks to our music composer, Zachary McConnell, and our producer, Leah Bryant.


More about the Inclusive STAGES Podcast


Inclusive STAGES™ Building Healthy Arts Spaces is the podcast for theater makers, creatives, and arts leaders who believe we can build a better industry—one brave, emotionally intelligent, and trauma-informed space at a time. Hosted by Kira Troilo, founder of Art & Soul Consulting, each episode explores what it really takes to create inclusive, healthy creative environments in today’s rapidly changing performing arts landscape.


Whether you're a theater artist, an arts administrator, an educator, a creative leader, or a producer, this show will help you answer big questions like:


What is inclusive leadership in the arts, and how do I practice it?


How can performing arts organizations promote diversity and inclusion?


What does “representation matters” mean in theater and beyond?


How can venues make performances more accessible?


What tools do I need to lead with care—and still make bold, brilliant work?


Through honest conversations, industry insights, and practical tools, Inclusive STAGES™ empowers you to reduce burnout, dismantle harmful norms, and build the kinds of creative spaces where everyone can thrive.


New episodes every week. Follow now and join the movement toward healthier, more sustainable arts spaces. 

 
 
 

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