The culture of compassion

Yesterday, we went to the Acco Theatre.  This theatre is run by an Arab and a Jew.   These friends, Moni and Khaled, have worked together for 30 years.  They have a professional company that tours the world over.  They work with children of all ages.  The describe concentric circles of identity:

1.  Me

2.  Family

3.  Neighborhood

4.  Country (Jews/Arabs, religious/secular

5.  World

This is the basis for the conversation and the dynamic of their exciting work.  Moni talked about the "little nazi" within all of us.  They break the 'fourth wall' in theater terms.  The audience actor interaction is an important part of their work.

Khaled is a Sufi.  When he dances he says that

   His spirit swirls beyond him.  His fasting for Ramadan is a spiritual exercise is goodness.  He knows

   That people think he is "meshuganeh" for trying to be a good person--insan (mensch)-- people are     more comfortable with negativity.  He is a role model for a beautiful artist with a kind soul.

From Acco we traveled to a beautiful Tunisian Synagogue.  The mosaic art throughout the synagogue 

Is fantastic.

Some of the metal work looks like paper cuts.

We stopped briefly at Ceasarea, Herod's home away from home.  he was a despicable guy with great

Taste!

The day ended with a phenomenal theatre company NaLagaat, please touch.  The actors are blind and/or deaf.  They combined their personal stories with music and dance.  They kneaded and baked bread on stage which they shared with the audience at the conclusion of the play.  This is extraordinary 

Theatre.  Not to be missed.  It was a fitting conclusion to a day of compassionate creativity.