"The Ally": A Complex Exploration of Social Justice and Identity

Itamar Moses's play "The Ally" at the Public Theater delves into the complex and contentious issues of Israel-Palestine relations, police brutality, and university activism through the lens of a well-meaning adjunct professor. The play, directed by Lila Neugebauer, skillfully navigates these difficult conversations with humor and sincerity, challenging audiences to engage in uncomfortable discussions and consider the moral imperative of speaking and listening to one another. Through the character of Asaf, the play explores the struggle to reconcile personal identity with political and social realities, ultimately posing thought-provoking questions about the nature of nuance and the need for action in the face of global crises.