Jerry's Habima Theatre Celebrates its Actors Along With Milestone Anniversary

Next week, Jerry’s Habima Theatre at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta celebrates its 20th anniversary, with “Grease: The School Version.”

Directed and produced by professionals, the theater company features actor with developmental disabilities.

“Twenty years ago, I had to beg my friends to come and donate some money to support the show, and now Habima is a nationally-acclaimed, annual event that is a “go-to” for Atlanta audiences,” said founding chair Saba Silverman.

“Grease” opens Thursday. It's presented by MJCCA’s Blonder Family Department for Developmental Disabilities. Benefactor Lois Blonder says it’s the perfect production for the milestone anniversary and the performers have poured their heart into it. The actors rehearsed for three months developing new skills and self-confidence in the process.

Actor Mark Benator said, “I’ve been involved with Habima since it started. It has meant so much to me, and to the other actors with disabilities, since there’s not another theater like this in town."

He added, “We started with just a handful of people, and now we have almost 40 actors, and sold-out performances…”

In 2007, Habima received the Spirit of Suzi Bass Award for its long-term and consistent contribution to professionalism in Atlanta theater.

If You Go

Grease showtimes are Thurs. at 7:30 p.m.; Sat., March 9 at 8:30 p.m.; Sun., March 10 at 3 p.m.; Thurs., March 14 at 7:30 p.m.; Sat., March 16 at 8:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 17 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $35; Children 12 and under: $15. MJCCA Members: $25; Children 12 and under: $10.