The Jewish Dramatic Association of London (stylised as JDAL, pronounced “Jay-Dal”) was founded in 2024 as a safe space for Jewish creatives in the city to showcase their work. “During this time of rife Judeophobia,” they state on the website, “it’s vital for us to stick together and help one another as we fight for our place in the industry.” Indeed, many Jewish works have recently been subject to controversy and cancellation – such as comedians Rachel Creeger and Philip Simon having their shows pulled last minute from the Edinburgh Fringe last summer – emphasising the necessity of community-led producing initiatives.
The organisation’s sense of solidarity also extends to the audience. As host of the cabaret, founder Natan Paul-Collis is charming, introducing the show and keeping things moving through to the finale with equal parts banter and economy. Six singers exhibit an impressive variety of tones and styles: standout performances include Ariella Barnett’s evocative cover of ‘Omar Sharif’ from The Band’s Visit, Benjamin Haim-Isaac’s bouncy rendition of ‘I Love Betsy’ from Honeymoon in Vegas, and the haunting ‘You Don’t Know This Man’ from Parade sung by Ashleigh Schuman.
