Greater New Haven Community Events Calendar

Laub’s play traces her struggle to hold opposing truths: one can love and support Israel and be critical ofher government’s actions (or inactions). 

One can weep for the death of Jewish children and the death of Palestinian children. She embodies her Israeli cousins, a Palestinian mother of martyrs, and 20 other characters with distinct points of view including Golda Meir (having played her for years in a touring production of Golda’s Balcony). Her play questions: How can the victims, the innocents on both sides, begin to heal from their trauma? What is the role diaspora Jews can play to support Israel? How can people of every faith, denomination, and political persuasion acknowledge the need for peace, now, even as a new war shatters the region? Sandra will (hopefully) be touring her play throughout Israel in May 2026, then on to London’s esteemed Jewish Community Center, JW3.

The Picking Up Stones creative team includes filmmaker/musician Roger James Kuhn’s sound design and paintings by award winning Connecticut artist Susan Clinard and the New Haven mother-daughter team ofSusan and Abby Feldman. Jerry Fischer, retired Executive Director Jewish Federation for 35 years, is the producer. Sandra received the ​“Artists 4 Artists’ award at the 2024 Providence (RI) Fringe festival, an honor given by fellow performing artists to a show that deserves a wider audience. Her play was chosen as a ​“parallel event” at last year’s UN/NGO CSW (Committee On The Status of Women).

Jews and Muslims worldwide face a sharp spike in Antisemitism and Islamophobia. Even though the hostages have returned, Hamas is present in Gaza and Israeli soldiers, always ready to defend their country, are at great risk. Iran showers Israel with missiles; citizens run for shelter. Will the coming Israeli elections see a change in direction? In America, political left and right swing sharply, debating the issue of arms to Israel in the streets and on campus; the region is re-made as the world watches. Sandra grapples with emotions anyone can recognize in this swirling maelstrom of events. Her play aligns with the values of New Israel Fund.

Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance. Please call (860) 526‑8920. Donations are gratefully accepted. There will be a moderated talk back after the show, with light refreshments served.