Nathan the Wise

NATHAN THE WISE

Written by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing
Adapted by Michael Bloom
Directed by Adam Immerwahr
Produced in Association with Folger Theatre

AN 18TH-CENTURY SHAKESPEAREAN FABLE

In 12th century Jerusalem, Jews, Christians, and Muslims live side by side in peace—or so they hope. As tensions rise, the ruling sultan asks: “Which religion is the one most beloved by G-d?” Lives, and the future of Jerusalem itself, are on the line as the brilliant Jewish merchant Nathan seeks to answer the question. This funny and timely 18th-century Shakespearean play is chock full of mistaken identities, foiled romances, and relationships across cultural and religious divides. Michael Bloom’s smart new adaptation celebrates the common humanity that unites us all.

“A moving story that speaks, as you might guess, to conflicts that roil the world today.” – New York Times