The Holy Rosenbergs: A Revival That Echoes Today's Conflicts
Ryan Craig's 2011 play, The Holy Rosenbergs, originally staged at the National Theatre, has been revived at the Menier Chocolate Factory in Southwark, running from 10 March to 2 May 2026. Directed by Lindsay Posner, this production underscores the play's enduring relevance, as it delves into the divisions within a north London Jewish family over the Israel/Palestine conflict.
A Family Torn Asunder by Political Divides
Set in 2009, the drama centers on the Rosenberg family, grappling with the death of their son Danny, who served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza. His sister Ruth, a human rights lawyer investigating IDF war crimes, adds to the familial tension. The play opens on the eve of Danny's London memorial, with the family members struggling to cope: Jonny, the angry third sibling; Rabbi Simon advising Ruth to avoid protests; and parents David and Lesley, who mask their grief with forced cheer while worrying about their catering business.
Craig's writing avoids taking sides aggressively, instead offering compassion to all characters. It explores why support for Israel can be deeply personal for British Jews, without endorsing actions like bombing schools or using white phosphorus—topics debated in the play that remain depressingly current. The domestic scenes evoke a Miller-esque tone, with David's fading caterer reminiscent of Willy Loman, highlighting generational shifts and personal failures.
Powerful Performances and Staging
Posner's production adopts a naturalistic style, with transitions marked by '00s music to emphasize the period setting. The cast delivers fine performances, particularly Dorothea Myer-Bennett as Ruth, whose fiery dedication to justice conceals her vulnerability. Nicholas Woodeson as David and Tracy-Ann Oberman as Lesley bring depth to their roles, portraying parents caught in a web of grief and conflict.
A standout scene features a heated argument between local dignitary Saul and Ruth's boss, Sir Stephen, about Israel's pariah status and war crimes. While powerful, this moment feels somewhat contrived, as these characters appear only to facilitate the debate, leaving the main family drama momentarily sidelined.
Why This Revival Matters Now
In a world where the Israel/Palestine conflict remains unresolved, The Holy Rosenbergs gains a timeless quality. Its revival reminds audiences of the cyclical nature of such geopolitical issues, making it more poignant than if it were a new play. Despite some structural flaws, the play's exploration of family, identity, and political allegiance ensures it does not fade into irrelevance.
Details: The play runs at Menier Chocolate Factory, 53 Southwark St, London SE1 1RU, with performances from 10 March to 2 May 2026. Tickets range from £35.75 to £50.25, and the runtime is 2 hours 20 minutes. Transport is accessible via London Bridge Tube station.
