A History of the Folksbiene

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A History of The Folksbiene

Struggle for the Negev
by Yigal Mosenson

1953-1954 Season

Radin Auditorium
128 Stanton Street
New York, NY

On December 12, 1953 in the Radin Auditorium, the play Der Kemf farn Negev (in Hebrew “בערבות הנגבֿ”)(The Battle for the Negev) by Yigal Mosenzon in Tsvi Shtok’s Yiddish translation, was performed by members of Israel’s Habimah Theatre, directed by Avrom Ninie, sets by Harry Baum, choreography by Belle Didja.

The play was performed Saturdays and Sundays until the end of March 1954, with a special performance on May 23, 1954 for the National Fund.

Chaim Lieberman writes (according to the book Fertsik Yor Folksbiene (Forty Years Folksbiene):

“I do not know exactly who the parents of this little theatre are. It’s clear, however, that this theater is in reality someone’s stepchild. It would have more sympathy and more support and a better chance with natural parents. And with a better chance the actors of the Folksbiene would be able to better their endeavors, better develop their talents and be better able to attract new backers and actors.”

And Sh. D. Singer writes:

“There were fewer actors this time. It was really a stroke of luck given the smaller stage in the auditorium. Away with massive-scenes! And each one had an opportunity to distinguish themselves on their own account.”

The Play Review (New York Times, December 14, 1953):

FOLKSBIENE SEASON OPENS
Amateur group, in its 40th year, offers "Struggle for Negev"

The Folksbiene, an unusual amateur dramatic organization, opened its fortieth season Saturday night with "Struggle for the Negev." The Yiddish play, translated from the Hebrew, will be staged Saturday and Sunday night and Sunday afternoon for about twenty weeks at the Radin Auditorium, 128 Stanton Street.

Dealing with the defense of a farm in Israel against Arab invasion, the play was written originally for the Habima Theatre in Israel by Yigal Mosenson and was translated into Yiddish by Zvi Shtok. It was directed here by Avraham Ninio of the Habima Theatre.

The Folksbiene, which has produced famous actors such as Paul Muni, is made up mostly of men and women who earn their livelihood in non-theatrical work. It is sponsored by the Workmen's Circle, a fraternal organization, and is managed by Reuben Aurnou.