Gandhi in Jerusalem, by Douglas Lackey, premiered at the Theater for the New City, in Manhattan in March 2003. It is now available for royalty-free production by non-profit theater groups.

This play presents the story of Salem, a Palestinian follower of Martin Luther King. Salem attempts to implement methods of nonviolent resistance amidst the rising tide of violence in East Jerusalem in October 2000, with tragic results. The character of Salem is modeled on the Palestinian political theorist, Mubarak Awad, a follower of Gandhi active in the first intifada in 1988.

"Gandhi in Jerusalem" takes no political view of its own, but serves as a vehicle for passionate presentations of political arguments on all sides of the conflict, Hamas, Hezbollah, liberal and conservative Israelis, all have their say. The history and future of the Arab-Israeli conflict are explored in depth. Nevertheless, the object of the play, says that author, is not to instruct, but to move the heart.

Production notes:
"Gandhi in Jerusalem" is a five act play with 27 characters. The 27 roles can be covered with fourteen actors, of which up to five can be female. The play is ideal for theater groups with actors of varying skills, as there are many non-speaking, limited speaking, and major dramatic parts. It is desirable, but not necessary, that the lead male role be played by Arab (or at least, Muslim) actor and the lead female role by played by an Israeli (or at least, Jewish) actress.

A CD of sound effects will be supplied by the author if desired, and a DVD of the original production is available to provide possible solutions to blocking problems.

Download the text of Gandhi in Jerusalem

Contact the author: doug@douglaslackey.com