New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud  Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1657

Spinoza and Rabbi

The Lantern Theater Company, located at 10th and Ludlow Streets in St. Stephens Church is bringing back New Jerusalem.... for a return engagement through September 23. A knock-your-socks-off philosophical debate between two of the greatest minds of their times, this presentation, directed by Charles McMahon, far surpasses the excellence of the drama which was enacted by the same cast last year.  Perhaps it is because the actors are more seasoned or more comfortable in their roles. Sam Henderson is very convincing as a young Spinoza who must plead for his freedom of thought while denying that he is a heretic. David Bardeen gives a strong performance as Rabbi Saul Levi Mortera who struggles with the burden of excommunicating his protoge. Seth Reichgott's Abraham van Valkenburgh is disturbingly forceful. The weighty subject matter is evenly tempered with just the right touch of wit. It is a shame there will be no room in Lantern’s schedule to extend the run again this year. There is a special Spinoza Fest this weekend. The Spinoza Fest Pass is available for $85 ($70 for seniors, students and groups of 10 or more) The Pass grants access to all events plus one ticket to any performance of New Jerusalem.     Friday September 7  6:30 PM- Director Charles McMahon will lecture and conduct Q & A on  Spinoza's  impact on modern philosophy and how these ideas shaped Lantern's production.10:30 PM Post-show Discussion- Artists in Conversation with the New Jerusalem cast.  There are many more events scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.  For tickets or more information, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org or call 215-829-0395.